FeTiO

FeTiO is a shorthand used in mineralogy and materials science for iron titanate oxides. The best-known member is the mineral ilmenite, with the chemical formula FeTiO3. In some contexts, FeTiO is used to indicate iron-titanium oxide systems or non-stoichiometric compositions related to FeTiO3.

Structure: Ilmenite has a hexagonal crystal system with space group R-3, where Fe2+ and Ti4+ occupy alternating octahedral sites within an oxygen lattice. The orderly arrangement along the c-axis gives the characteristic FeTiO3 composition, though natural samples can show non-stoichiometry and solid-solution with related oxides.

Natural occurrence: Ilmenite is common in mafic igneous rocks such as basalt and gabbro and is a major titanium ore. It also occurs in metamorphic rocks and in heavy-mineral sands along coastlines, where it often coexists with magnetite and other oxide minerals.

Industrial uses: Ore concentrates are processed to produce titanium dioxide (TiO2) pigment using sulfate or chloride processes. TiO2 pigment is widely used in paints, plastics, and paper. Ilmenite can also be refined further to obtain metallic titanium via established reduction routes.

See also and related topics: Ilmenite; Titanium oxide; Iron titanate. Safety: handling ore and dust may irritate the respiratory system; standard industrial hygiene practices apply.