Titanium Dioxide
Natural titanium minerals contain varying levels of titanium dioxide (TiO2) and Iron (FeO2).
Ilmenite is the most abundant titanium mineral with a TiO2 content ranging from 50-65%. Weathered or secondary ilmenite is called leucoxene and has a TiO2 content of 65-90%. Rutile is the highest grade natural titanium mineral with a TiO2 content >95%.
Ilmenite and leucoxene is refined to produce pure TiO2 pigment which is primarily used for the production of paints, paper, food additives, sunscreens, toothpaste and many other products. Rutile uses include production of welding rods and titanium metal. In metal form, titanium is used for aerospace, automotive, electronics, and medical devices.
Key uses of
Titanium Dioxide
Titanium Dioxide contained in Image HMC is further processed into final products with a wide range of applications globally.
Paints & Coatings
When used in a paint coating on the outside of buildings in warm and tropical climates, the white, light-reflecting qualities of TiO2 pigment can lead to considerable energy savings by reducing heat buildup inside the building requiring less air-conditioning. Also, TiO2 pigment durability provides weather resistant qualities that protect the wood or other materials to which it is applied.
Cosmetics
TiO2 has been deemed safe and effective for the use in colour cosmetics such as eye shadow, blush, loose and pressed powders and in sunscreens. Due to titanium dioxide's unique properties in protection against UVA and UVB light, it is an important ingredient in the fight against skin cancer.
Nanomaterials
Titanium dioxide is one of the most widely used nanomaterials in the world. Used as a nanomaterial in sunscreen to protect against skin cancer and also as a crucial DeNOx catalyst in exhaust gas systems for cars, trucks and power plants, thus minimising their environmental impact.
Plastics & Paper
TiO2 is also used widely within the plastics and paper industries around the world. It can improve the heat resistance, light resistance, and weather resistance of plastic products, protect plastic products from ultraviolet rays, and improve the mechanical and electrical properties of plastic products. Titanium dioxide in paper increases the whiteness, brightness, strength, gloss and smoothness of paper and paper products.
