CI 77891 (Titanium Dioxide)
Also Known As:
- Titanium (IV) oxide
- Titania
- Titanium white
- Pigment White 6 (PW6)
What is it? CI 77891, commonly known as Titanium Dioxide, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula TiO₂. It appears as a white, odorless powder and is widely used as a pigment due to its excellent opacity and brightness.
What Makes it Different? Titanium Dioxide is unique because of its high refractive index, which means it can scatter light more effectively than most other materials. This property makes it an excellent whitening agent and opacifier. Additionally, it is non-reactive, non-toxic, and resistant to discoloration under UV light, making it highly stable and safe for use in various applications.
Where Does it Come From? Titanium Dioxide is derived from naturally occurring minerals such as rutile, ilmenite, and anatase. These minerals are abundant in nature, making the production of Titanium Dioxide relatively sustainable. The extraction process involves either the sulfate process or the chloride process, both of which purify the raw minerals to produce high-purity Titanium Dioxide.
Where is it Used? Titanium Dioxide is used in a wide range of products, including:
- Cosmetics: As a pigment in foundations, powders, and sunscreens for its whitening and UV-blocking properties.
- Paints and Coatings: To provide opacity and brightness.
- Plastics: As a colorant and UV stabilizer.
- Food Products: As a whitening agent in items like candies and dairy products.
- Pharmaceuticals: In tablet coatings to improve appearance and stability.
Is it Sustainable? Titanium Dioxide is considered relatively sustainable due to the abundance of its raw materials. However, the production processes (sulfate and chloride) have environmental impacts that need to be managed.
Sustainability Issues Related to its Production:
- Energy Consumption: The extraction and purification processes are energy-intensive.
- Waste Generation: Both the sulfate and chloride processes generate waste products that need to be carefully managed to prevent environmental contamination.
- Air Emissions: The production of Titanium Dioxide can result in the release of pollutants, including sulfur dioxide and chlorine gas, which need to be controlled to minimize environmental impact.
Despite these challenges, ongoing advancements in production technologies aim to reduce the environmental footprint of Titanium Dioxide manufacturing, making it a more sustainable option over time.