Titanium Dioxide Uses
Chemistry / / July 04, 2021
The Titanium dioxide It is a chemical compound formed by one atom of Titanium and two atoms of Oxygen. It is of great relevance for daily life, since it is known as one of the whitest substances in the world. Their uses are based on this feature.
It is naturally found in a mineral called "Rutile”, Which is a stone with a high composition of Titanium Dioxide. By obtaining Titanium Dioxide in its pure manifestation, it is a fine powder with a very intense whiteness, considered the largest among existing substances.
Its applications include the domestic, food, industrial, textile and cosmetic fields, for example.
The most common uses of Titanium Dioxide are:
Additive for waterproofing
During the summer, the house is required to be at a comfortable temperature, which is why it is used to cover the roof in white to reflect solar radiation as best as possible. The white color can be applied in paint, but to have more than one effect, it is applied in a waterproofer. A) Yes, the house will be fresh and also protected from leaks in case of rains.
Reflective additive for domestic paints
In white interior paints, titanium dioxide is used as an additive to achieve optimal use of daylight. The white walls make the house look even more illuminated from the inside even if there are curtains blocking some of the outside light.
Chewing gum ingredient
Chewing gums that help you have better breath usually come in white lozenges. To better perceive the effect they bring to the consumer, the white colorant Titanium Dioxide is added, a white that looks good when you imagine it on your own teeth.
Industrial paint ingredient
In production plants, optimal lighting and maximum use of light are required, so LED lights are often used for night shifts and skylights for the day. As a great complement to these tools, Titanium Dioxide is found in interior wall paints. The whitening effect of the area will be enhanced, and it will work with a comfortable lack of shadows.
Important ingredient in sunscreen
The function of Titanium Dioxide in sunscreen is to act as a filter for Ultraviolet Rays, reflecting them outwards, protecting the user's skin from burns and potential cancer.
Paper whitening
Titanium Dioxide collaborates as a powerful bleach for the paper, in the last steps of the process. In the intermediate sections the bleach is Chlorine or Sodium Hydroxide. Whiteness greater than 95% can be achieved thanks to Titanium Dioxide.
Textile additive for white fabrics
If a fabric undergoes a Titanium Dioxide treatment, you will get a better whiteness, such that it will differ from the more common whites, which will appear yellowish, such as ivory white.
Toothpaste coloring
To have commercial credibility, toothpastes need to have a high whiteness, so that the user perceives what their teeth will reach after several uses of it. Although, of course, it depends on how often it is used, not so much on the effectiveness of the product. Whiteness is a strategy for brand positioning.
Food coloring
Titanium Dioxide is used as a coloring additive in certain foods, such as dressings, so they have an acceptable appearance. Ingredient colors typically impart a yellowish or slightly brownish result, which is unappetizing. The white color gives the feeling of cleanliness and innocuousness, making it attractive to the consumer.
White cosmetic additive
White cosmetics help to make corrections or accentuate the effect of others. Titanium Dioxide achieves a purer white that will allow the desired combinations to be made. Since it is not toxic or harmful to the skin, it is widely used for these purposes.
Examples of Uses of Titanium Dioxide
As an additive for waterproofing in summer
As a reflective additive for house paints
As an ingredient in chewing gums
As an ingredient in industrial paint
As an important component of sunscreen
For paper whitening
Textile additive to obtain fabrics with high whiteness
Toothpaste coloring
Food coloring
As an additive for white cosmetics