Titane

Titane, or titanium in English, is a chemical element with the symbol Ti and atomic number 22. It is a relatively light transition metal known for a high strength-to-weight ratio and exceptional resistance to corrosion. In pure form it is a silver-gray, non-magnetic metal with a melting point of about 1,668°C and a boiling point near 3,287°C. Titanium develops a stable, protective oxide film (titanium dioxide) that gives it corrosion resistance in many environments.

Occurrence and production: Titanium is the eighth most abundant element in the Earth’s crust, occurring mainly in minerals such as ilmenite (FeTiO3) and rutile (TiO2). Commercial production relies on the Kroll process, which converts titanium tetrachloride into metallic sponge via reduction with magnesium. The sponge is purified and melted to produce ingots and usable forms for alloying.

Alloys and properties: Titanium readily forms alloys with aluminum, vanadium, and other elements, yielding materials with high strength, good toughness, and excellent corrosion resistance. The Ti-6Al-4V alloy is among the most widely used, offering a balance of strength, weight, and biocompatibility. Titanium remains resistant to many acids and is stable at high temperatures, though it forms a protective oxide layer that can affect joining and machining.

Applications: Major applications include aerospace components, marine structures, and industrial equipment, where weight reduction and durability are crucial. Titanium and its alloys are also important in medical implants, dental devices, and prosthetics due to their biocompatibility. Titanium dioxide is a common white pigment used in paints and coatings.

History: Titanium was first identified in 1791 by William Gregor in Cornwall, who found a new oxide. Martin Klaproth later named the element titanium after the Titans of Greek mythology. Commercial production of metallic titanium began in the mid-20th century with the development of the Kroll process.