Titanium is becoming more useful by the day. Once considered
useless, the compound is now used regularly in medicine, sports and aerospace.
Almost 97% of the titanium used around the world is in its oxide form, which
creates a significant demand for the metal.
Today’s paint cannot live without titanium dioxide. In fact,
today, it is the most important part – giving it the rich depth and high color,
particularly whites. Lead used to fit the role titanium dioxide now plays, but
was discontinued as an ingredient in paints when it was discovered that lead
often caused major health complications. Today, titanium dioxide, also known as
TiO2, is also used in a number of other things like crayons, sunscreens and
food coloring.
Even coated ceramic tile that are designed and manufactured
in countries like Japan, Germany, France, England, Scotland and Spain have
TiO2, which has self-cleaning and disinfectant qualities. This special coating
protects the tile and will last as long as the tile itself. The best part about
it is the fact it is activated by water and UV light. There are other TiO2
applications like roof tiles that are also activated by the same UV light (sun
rays).
One of the most impressive qualities of TiO2 is that it’s
used to the surrounding air near vegetable, cut flowers and fruit to increase
the shelf life and prevent spoilage. Its photocatalytic properties are designed
to remove ethylene gases from the air, which are naturally gaseous hormones
that are produced by plants that ripen vegetables and fruits.
Titanium dioxide is an important part of many aspects of
life. As demand climbs more uses are found each decade for this important metal
and its various forms.
