Titanium oxide, also known as titanium dioxide, is a naturally occurring white pigment commonly used in paints, coatings, plastics, and sunscreens. It has high refractive index and opacity.
| IUPAC Name | Titanium(IV) oxide |
| Molecular Formula | TiO2 |
| CAS Number | 13463-67-7 |
| Synonyms | Titanium dioxide, titania, anatase, brookite, rutile, octahedral molecular sieve (OMS), E171 |
| InChI | InChI=1S/2O.Ti |
| InChIKey=ZQIUJXQCIJLZJK-UHFFFAOYSA-N |
Titanium Dioxide Properties
Titanium Oxide molar mass
The molar mass of titanium oxide (TiO2) is approximately 79.87 g/mol. It is a white, odorless, and tasteless powder that is insoluble in water and organic solvents. The molar mass is calculated by adding the atomic masses of one titanium atom and two oxygen atoms that make up a single molecule of TiO2. This value is important in determining the stoichiometry of chemical reactions involving titanium oxide.
Titanium Oxide boiling point
Titanium oxide does not have a well-defined boiling point since it decomposes before reaching its melting point. The decomposition temperature of TiO2 depends on the crystal structure, particle size, and purity of the material. For example, rutile TiO2 decomposes at around 1850°C, whereas anatase TiO2 decomposes at a lower temperature of around 1600°C. At higher temperatures, titanium oxide is reduced to metallic titanium. This property makes it a useful material in high-temperature applications, such as furnace linings and refractory bricks.
Titanium Oxide melting point
The melting point of titanium oxide depends on its crystal structure. Anatase TiO2 has a melting point of around 1550°C, while rutile TiO2 has a higher melting point of around 1850°C. The melting point of TiO2 is also affected by impurities in the material, such as iron and other transition metals, which can lower the melting point and change the crystal structure. At high temperatures, titanium oxide can undergo reduction to form metallic titanium.
Titanium Oxide density g/ml
The density of titanium oxide depends on the crystal structure and particle size. Anatase TiO2 has a density of 3.78 g/cm3, while rutile TiO2 has a higher density of 4.23 g/cm3. Impurities in the material affect the crystal structure of TiO2 and can alter the packing density of its particles, thus affecting its density. Compared to other metal oxides, titanium oxide has a low density, which makes it a useful material in applications where a low weight-to-volume ratio is desired.
Titanium Oxide molecular weight
The molecular weight of titanium oxide (TiO2) is approximately 79.87 g/mol. It is a compound made up of one titanium atom and two oxygen atoms. The molecular weight is important in determining the stoichiometry of chemical reactions involving titanium oxide, as well as its physical and chemical properties.
Titanium dioxide Structure
Titanium dioxide has three main crystal structures rutile, anatase, and brookite. Rutile is the most stable and has a tetragonal crystal structure, while anatase has a more open and distorted tetragonal structure. Brookite has an orthorhombic crystal structure. The crystal structure of titanium dioxide affects its physical and chemical properties, such as its density, melting point, and reactivity. The structure of titanium dioxide can be modified through doping with other metals or by changing the synthesis conditions, resulting in materials with unique properties and applications.
Titanium dioxide formula
The chemical formula of titanium dioxide is TiO2, which indicates that each molecule of TiO2 contains one titanium atom and two oxygen atoms. The formula is important in determining the stoichiometry of chemical reactions involving titanium dioxide, as well as its physical and chemical properties. The formula can also be used to calculate the amount of titanium dioxide needed in a particular application, such as in the production of pigments, coatings, and ceramics.
| Appearance | White powder |
| Specific Gravity | 3.9 – 4.25 |
| Color | White |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Molar Mass | 79.87 g/mol |
| Density | 3.78 – 4.23 g/cm3 |
| Melting Point | 1550°C (anatase) – 1850°C (rutile) |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes before boiling |
| Flash Point | Not applicable |
| Water Solubility | Insoluble |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water and organic solvents |
| Vapour Pressure | Not applicable |
| Vapour Density | Not applicable |
| pKa | Not applicable |
| pH | 6.5 – 8.5 |
Is Titanium Dioxide Safe?
Titanium dioxide is generally considered safe and non-toxic. It is not flammable, explosive, or reactive with other chemicals. However, like any fine particulate material, it can be a respiratory irritant if inhaled in high concentrations, which can cause coughing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure to high levels of dust may also cause lung damage. It is important to handle titanium dioxide in a well-ventilated area and to wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as a dust mask, when handling large quantities. In addition, accidental ingestion or eye contact with titanium dioxide should be avoided.
| Hazard Symbols | None |
| Safety Description | Not considered hazardous under normal conditions of use |
| UN IDs | Not applicable |
| HS Code | 28230000 |
| Hazard Class | Not classified as hazardous |
| Packing Group | Not applicable |
| Toxicity | Generally considered non-toxic, but can be a respiratory irritant if inhaled in high concentrations |
Titanium Oxide Synthesis Methods
Titanium oxide can be synthesized through several methods, including chemical and physical processes. The most common methods are:
- The sulfate process reacts titanium ores with sulfuric acid to produce a hydrated form of titanium dioxide, which undergoes calcination at high temperatures to obtain the final product.
- The chloride process involves the reaction of titanium ores with chlorine gas to form titanium tetrachloride, which then undergoes hydrolysis to obtain titanium dioxide.
- In the sol-gel method, the hydrolysis of titanium alkoxides in a solution is followed by a condensation reaction that forms a gel. Subsequently, the gel undergoes drying and calcination to produce titanium oxide.
- The flame synthesis method produces titanium oxide particles by combusting a fuel and an oxidizer in a flame to generate a high-temperature gas stream. The titanium precursor undergoes injection into the flame, where it reacts and forms the particles.
- In the hydrothermal synthesis method, a titanium precursor undergoes dissolution in a high-temperature and high-pressure aqueous solution, which promotes the growth of titanium oxide crystals.
The choice of method depends on the desired properties of the titanium oxide product, as well as the cost and feasibility of the process. Each method has its own advantages and limitations, and researchers continue to explore new methods for the synthesis of titanium oxide with improved properties and performance.
What is Titanium Dioxide Used for?
Titanium oxide has a wide range of applications due to its unique properties, including its high refractive index, high opacity, and excellent UV resistance. Some of the most common uses of titanium oxide are:
- The pigment industry widely uses titanium dioxide in paints, coatings, plastics, and paper, as it provides high opacity, brightness, and UV resistance, making it a popular choice for outdoor applications.
- Manufacturers commonly use titanium dioxide in sunscreens and other cosmetic products as an effective UV absorber to protect the skin from UV radiation.
- The production of ceramic materials, including electrical ceramics, catalytic converters, and ceramic glazes, heavily relies on titanium dioxide as a key component.
- In various chemical reactions, including the production of polyethylene and other polymers, titanium dioxide acts as a catalyst.
- The electronic industry utilizes titanium dioxide in the production of electronic devices, such as capacitors and resistors, due to its high dielectric constant and low electrical conductivity.
- To enhance their reflectivity and durability, manufacturers apply a thin film coating of titanium dioxide on lenses, mirrors, and other optical components, which is widely used in the optical coatings industry.
- Due to its excellent biocompatibility and resistance to corrosion, medical implants, such as dental implants, make use of titanium dioxide in biomedical applications.
The diverse range of applications of titanium oxide highlights its importance in various industries and its potential for future innovations.
Questions: Titanium Dioxide in Food
Titanium dioxide is a common food additive used to whiten and brighten food products. The ingredient label of food products often lists it as E171 or “titanium dioxide”. It is approved as a food colorant in the United States, the European Union, and many other countries. Manufacturers use it to provide a bright, white appearance and to improve the texture and consistency of food products, including candy, gum, baked goods, dairy products, and beverages. Additionally, it is used as a light-scattering agent to improve the opacity of some food products.
While titanium dioxide is generally considered safe for use in food, there is concern that consuming it in large quantities could be harmful. Studies suggest that nanoparticles of titanium dioxide may have toxic effects on human health, especially in the digestive system. However, more research is needed to determine the safety of titanium dioxide in food.
Some countries have taken steps to limit the use of titanium dioxide in food. For example, France banned the use of titanium dioxide as a food additive in 2020, and the European Union is currently reviewing the safety of titanium dioxide in food. Consumers should be aware of the potential risks and benefits of titanium dioxide as with any food additive, and make informed choices about the foods they consume.