Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is an important inorganic compound widely used in various industries due to its unique physical and chemical properties. It is particularly popular as a white pigment in industries such as paint manufacturing, food, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and electronics. History of Titanium Dioxide Discovery The discovery of titanium dioxide dates back to the late 18th century. In 1791, William Gregor, a British geologist, identified the element titanium in mineral rocks. A few decades later, in 1821, Martin Heinrich Klaproth, a German scientist, successfully identified titanium dioxide as a compound. By the early 20th century, industrial processes for extracting and refining TiO₂ were developed, and in the 1920s, its commercial production for use in the paint industry began. Today, titanium dioxide is one of the most widely used white pigments in the world. Crystalline Structure Titanium dioxide commonly exists in two crystalline forms: Rutile Anatase Both forms have different applications across various industries. Applications of Titanium Dioxide 1. Paints and Coatings Industry Due to its high opacity and color stability, titanium dioxide is extensively used in manufacturing architectural, industrial, and automotive paints. It enhances the brightness, transparency, and durability of coatings. 2. Plastics and Rubber Industry In plastics, TiO₂ acts as an anti-UV agent and enhances transparency. It is used in PVC, polyethylene, and polypropylene products to prevent degradation and yellowing from sunlight exposure. 3. Paper Industry Titanium dioxide improves the brightness and opacity of high-quality glossy papers. 4. Cosmetics and Personal Care Industry TiO₂ plays a crucial role in sunscreens as a UV absorber. It is also used in the production of cosmetic creams, lotions, and skincare products. 5. Food and Pharmaceutical Industry In some food and pharmaceutical products, TiO₂ is used as an approved white pigment (E171) to create an attractive white appearance. It is found in chewing gums, candies, and tablets. However, in recent years, concerns have been raised about its safety in food products. 6. Electronics and Energy Sector Titanium dioxide is utilized in the production of solar cells, gas sensors, and photocatalysts for air and water purification. Its semiconducting properties make it an ideal material for nanotechnology applications. 7. Textile Industry Titanium dioxide has multiple applications in the textile sector due to its optical, mechanical, and chemical properties: 1. Enhancing Synthetic Fibers: TiO₂ is used in the production of synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, and acrylic to reduce excessive transparency and give them a matte appearance. Without TiO₂, synthetic fibers would be overly glossy, which is undesirable in many textile applications. 2. UV Resistance Enhancement: TiO₂ absorbs UV rays, making it ideal for fabrics exposed to sunlight. It is widely used in UV-protective clothing, sportswear, tents, and protective coverings. 3. Improving Color Stability and Yellowing Resistance: TiO₂ prevents fibers from yellowing due to light and heat exposure, making it essential in manufacturing curtains, light-colored clothing, and decorative fabrics. 4. Coatings and Textile Finishing: It is used in textile coatings to provide a smoother, more durable, and abrasion-resistant surface. 5. Antibacterial and Self-Cleaning Properties: Recent advancements have led to the use of nano-TiO₂ for self-cleaning and antibacterial textiles, which are particularly beneficial for medical clothing, masks, and hospital fabrics. Global Consumption and Production The global consumption of titanium dioxide is estimated at around 6 million tons per year. The largest producers and consumers of this compound are China, the United States, and Europe.