The Blueprint’s Blue Legacy: Unraveling the History Behind the Iconic Color
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In the realm of architecture and engineering, blueprints are an indispensable tool for visualizing project plans. But have you ever wondered why these large-format prints are always adorned with a distinctive blue hue? The answer lies in a fascinating chemical process that dates back to the early 18th century.
In 1704, an alchemist and a dye-maker in Berlin stumbled upon a vivid blue dye while experimenting with potash and iron sulfate. This serendipitous discovery led to the creation of Prussian blue, a color that would later become synonymous with blueprints.
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Initially known as Berlin blue, Prussian blue gained popularity for its durability and intensity, making it a favorite among artists and printmakers.
Fast forward to 1842, when English photographer and chemist John Herschel discovered that combining ferric ammonium citrate