TiO2 itself was first officially named and created in the laboratory in the late 1800s. It was not until the early 20th century that it began mass production and became a safer alternative to other white pigments.

Titanium Dipxide

The element titanium and compound TiO2 exist around the world, related to other elements such as iron, and are present in various rocks and minerals (including some components of beach sand). Titanium is most commonly present in the form of the mineral ilmenite (a type of titanium iron oxide mineral), and sometimes in the form of the mineral rutile (a form of TiO2). These inert molecular compounds must be separated through chemical processes to produce pure TiO2.

How is titanium dioxide extracted?

The purity of extracting TiO2 from titanium containing molecules depends on the composition of the original ore or raw materials. Two methods are used to manufacture pure TiO2: sulfate method and chloride method.

The main natural source of titanium dioxide is the extracted ilmenite ore, which contains 45-60% TiO2. Pure TiO2 can be produced from it or its concentrated derivatives (called titanium slag) using sulfate or chloride processes.

Sulfate method and chloride method

Among these two extraction methods, the sulfate method is currently the most popular method for producing TiO2 in the European Union, accounting for 70% of European sources. The remaining 30% is the result of the chlorination process. On a global scale, it is estimated that approximately 40-45% of global production is based on the chloride method.

As a widely used substance with multiple uses, research is being conducted to improve production processes, reduce the use of chemicals and waste generation, and recycle any byproducts.