Titaniumsioxide

Titaniumsioxide, commonly known as titanium dioxide, is a white inorganic compound with the chemical formula TiO2. It is produced both naturally as mineral forms and synthetically for commercial use.

Titaniumsioxide exists in three crystalline polymorphs: rutile, anatase, and brookite. Rutile is the most thermodynamically stable form at ambient conditions, while anatase is more photocatalytically active. The material has a high refractive index, strong opacity, and excellent chemical stability, properties that underpin its widespread use as a white pigment.

Industrial production generally starts from titanium-bearing ores such as ilmenite or rutile. In sulfate or chloride processes, the ore is converted to titanium compounds, hydrolyzed, and calcined to yield pigment-grade TiO2.

Applications include pigments for paints, coatings, plastics, and paper; UV-blocking components in cosmetics; and functional uses in photocatalysis, environmental remediation, self-cleaning surfaces, and certain solar cells.

Safety and regulation: TiO2 is of low solubility and is considered of low acute toxicity in many contexts, though inhalation of fine powders can pose respiratory hazards. Nanoparticle forms may be subject to additional regulatory scrutiny and workplace controls.

Occurrence: In nature, TiO2 occurs as the mineral forms rutile, anatase, and brookite, and as a major constituent of titanium-bearing minerals and heavy mineral sands.