Colorants: Moving to the Next Stage

1. The Initial Phase

As Editor-in-Chief of Colorants [ISSN: 2079-6447], I have watched the progressive growth of this journal and witnessed the expansion of topics way beyond the initial consideration. This journal has matured quickly, now publishing Volume 3, and is entering a period of stability. Published articles cover diverse topics, such as the development of new colorants, removal of pollutants, in situ modification of chromophores, reagent stability, and the identification of ancient pigments, with the emphasis always being placed on high-quality science. We have established an active Editorial Board, with specialist knowledge covering all aspects of the subject, and we set up a suite of expert reviewers. A small range of Special Issues accompanies the regular submission process. Processing times have been lowered to a bare minimum, with editorial decisions being made professionally, quickly, and fairly. There is considerable competition in the field, with a variety of alternative journals on offer; however, Colorants is certainly making its mark and providing an invaluable service to the scientific community.

2. Goals, Aim, and Scope

Over the past decade, there has been a rapid, uncontrolled expansion in the number and scope of open-access science journals. It seems that a new journal is established every week, often being indistinguishable from existing competitors. Productive researchers are being bombarded with invitations to submit manuscripts to journals of which they have never heard and on subjects far removed from their own interests. How then do we safeguard our fledgling journal and ensure its place in the scientific community? The emphasis must be on quality submissions and the establishment of a wide panel of readers having a clear, accurate, and objective understanding of the subject. Authors must be encouraged to disseminate rigorous scientific information, knowing that their submission will be treated confidentially and subjected to an unbiased peer review. Although chemistry, in the broadest definition of the discipline, remains the first keyword, Colorants must enable scientists from different specialties to find, in the same journal, the forum and the knowledgeable audience they seek. Apart from attracting high-quality manuscripts, this journal must continue to maintain a critical database of expert reviewers who share the aspirations and ambitions of the Editorial Team. Readers will find reviews and articles describing theoretical approaches, experimental procedures, spectroscopic investigations, historical accounts, and discussions on the role of colorants in ancient and modern societies.

3. Call for Submissions

Colorants aims to cover all aspects of the science of colorants. This journal is seeking new submissions from scholars, researchers, historians, and practitioners active in the field. Manuscripts should endeavour to meet this journal’s tradition of advancing knowledge, understanding and appreciating colorants, and highlighting contemporary issues of relevance to the field. Original research articles that disseminate recent results are the staple form of submission, but reviews, communications, and brief announcements are also welcome. The Editorial Team can provide informal advice on suitability and assist with manuscript structure. Suggestions for Special Issues are especially welcome. We thank you in advance for your collaboration and support. We look forward to handling your submission in the near future.