By Jeff Skrzypek

CORVALLIS, Ore. -- Researchers at Oregon State University may have discovered a new way to make blue pigment, and they did it on accident.

Scientists say blue is one of the hardest colors to create and an even harder color to keep from fading.  It took the group of researchers by surprise when they discovered a glowing blue compound instead of the electric application material they were trying to make. 

OSU researchers say the discovery may lead to a cheaper, more environmentally friendly, and long lasting blue pigment due to the way in which they discovered the color compound.  Scientist say the discovery could also bring costs down for many consumer products because blue is a highly desirable color.

Researchers say they would like to study their findings more and hopefully one day be able to change the way many people see the color blue.  They say it could lead to developments in car paint, house paint, ink for printers, and even clothing such as blue jeans.

Scientists say the next step for the team may be the hardest challenge they have faced so far in the process.  Researchers say because their findings were unexpected, they have to recreate the steps that lead to the discovery of the color pigment.