Titanium dioxide is an inert earth mineral used as a thickening, opacifying, and sunscreen ingredient in cosmetics. It protects skin from UVA and UVB radiation and is considered non-risky in terms of of skin sensitivity. Because it is gentle, titanium dioxide is a great sunscreen active for sensitive, redness-prone skin. It’s great for use around the eyes, as it is highly unlikely to cause stinging.
Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a naturally occurring compound that is mined, refined and processed into a fine powder. It is known for its exceptional opacity, brightness and high refractive index, making it an ideal ingredient in paint formulations. When added to paint, titanium dioxide scatters and reflects light, creating vibrant, long-lasting colors. It is this unique property that makes titanium dioxide the most widely used white pigment in the coatings industry.
The production of Chinese anatase titanium dioxide involves a series of complex chemical processes, including hydrolysis and calcination of titanium precursors. These processes result in the formation of nanoscale particles of anatase titanium dioxide, which exhibit enhanced properties such as increased surface area and improved reactivity. The size and morphology of these nanoparticles can be controlled during the synthesis process, allowing for the production of tailored materials with specific properties for different applications.
The factories also emphasize research and development, constantly seeking to improve the purity and performance of the end product. This has led to the development of new grades of TiO2 with enhanced light scattering capabilities, UV resistance, and improved color stability, catering to the evolving needs of various industries. Furthermore, suppliers should prioritize sustainability practices throughout their operations, from sourcing raw materials to manufacturing processes. This not only aligns with growing consumer demands for eco-friendly products but also helps reduce costs associated with waste management and energy consumption. Factories specialized in barium sulfate production employ different techniques to refine the mineral. The most common method is the wet process, where barite is ground and mixed with water, allowing lighter impurities to float while the heavier barium sulfate sinks. After separation, the resulting slurry is dried and heated to obtain the final product. Some advanced factories also utilize flotation or magnetic separation methods to enhance purity.
Because of health risks, France banned titanium dioxide as a food additive in 2020. Two years later the European Union also banned titanium dioxide as a food additive.
Moreover, the R&D wings of these factories are at the forefront of scientific discoverySunscreens made with mineral active ingredients, like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, generally score well in EWG’s Guide to Sunscreens. They provide strong sun protection with few health concerns and don’t easily break down in the sun.
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4. ElementisVariations of titanium dioxide are added to enhance the whiteness of paint, plastics, and paper products, though these variations differ from the food-grade ones for things we eat (1Trusted Source, 2Trusted Source).
European food safety regulators have since labeled titanium dioxide as no longer safe for human consumption, due to its potential toxicity.