Red lead is a bright red pigment that is composed of lead oxide with the chemical formula Pb3O4. It is also known as minium and has been used as a pigment for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Egypt and Greece.

Red lead is commonly used as a pigment in paints, where it provides a bright, durable, and weather-resistant red color. It is also used in the production of ceramic glazes, where it helps to create a bright, glossy finish. In the construction industry, red lead is often used as a corrosion inhibitor to protect steel structures from rust and corrosion.

Red lead is produced by heating lead metal in the presence of air. The resulting compound is a mixture of lead oxide and lead dioxide, which gives it its characteristic red color. Red lead has a high melting point and is insoluble in water, making it useful for applications where high temperature resistance and durability are required.

It is important to note that red lead is a toxic substance and can be harmful if ingested or inhaled in large quantities. Therefore, proper safety precautions should be taken when handling red lead, and its use and disposal should be in accordance with local regulations to minimize its impact on the environment