The secret chemistry of swiss banknotes

Swiss banknotes use innovative and resistant pigments to achieve rich colors and protect against counterfeiting. The yellow color of the 10-franc banknote is due to arylide yellow, a non-toxic organic pigment with excellent resistance. The red 20-franc banknote uses synthetic iron oxide and metallic pigments of aluminum and bronze, replacing the previously used toxic cinnabar. The green 50-franc banknote contains chromium oxide, a hard and refractory pigment. The blue 100-franc banknote uses phthalocyanine, a stable organic compound with unique optical properties. In addition to its technological advantages, each banknote carries a symbolic message: time, creativity, nature and knowledge – expressed through hands holding objects with deep meaning.