Titanium Dioxide

Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) is the pre-eminent white pigment in industrial use, valued for its exceptionally high refractive index: 2.70 for the rutile crystal form and 2.55 for anatase. This gives it unmatched light-scattering efficiency, opacity, and brightness compared with all other commercially available white pigments.

It is produced by two principal routes. The sulphate process dissolves ilmenite or titanium slag in sulphuric acid and precipitates TiO₂ by hydrolysis. The chloride process converts titanium-bearing feedstocks to titanium tetrachloride by chlorination, followed by vapour-phase oxidation to produce TiO₂. Chloride-process rutile grades are generally regarded as superior in brightness, tint reducing power, and photostability, and command a price premium over sulphate-process grades.

Rutile is the thermodynamically stable polymorph and the dominant form in industrial applications, offering higher refractive index, greater opacity, and superior durability compared with anatase. Anatase has a slightly lower refractive index and is used in applications where specific optical properties or lower photocatalytic activity are required.

Commercial TiO₂ pigments are surface-treated with inorganic oxides, typically alumina, silica, or combinations thereof, and organic surface agents to improve dispersibility, durability, and compatibility with specific binder systems. The surface treatment is a critical differentiator between grades and is matched to the intended application. TiO₂ is a globally traded commodity subject to significant price volatility, and ROCC Global monitors supply dynamics and sources material from established producers in Asia Pacific, Europe, and the Middle East.

Titanium Dioxide is the standard white pigment in paints and architectural coatings, used at loadings of 15 to 25% by weight of dry film to achieve the opacity, whiteness, and hiding power required by decorative and protective coating specifications. In exterior coatings, surface-treated rutile grades provide the photostability and chalking resistance required for long-term outdoor performance. In plastics, TiO₂ achieves whiteness and opacity in polyolefins, PVC, engineering polymers, and masterbatch concentrates, where its high refractive index allows effective opacity at relatively low loading levels. In the paper and board industry, it is used as a coating pigment and filler to improve brightness, opacity, and printability, particularly in premium printing papers and packaging boards. In inks, TiO₂ provides opacity in white and light-coloured printing inks for packaging, labels, and flexible films. In cosmetics, it is used as a white pigment and UV filter in sunscreens, foundations, and skincare products, where its UV-absorbing properties provide broad-spectrum sun protection.