Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) is a fundamental chemical compound with a wide array of industrial applications, primarily due to its exceptional whiteness, opacity, and UV-blocking properties. However, not all TiO2 is created equal. For procurement professionals and product developers, understanding the different grades of TiO2 is crucial for selecting the material that best suits their specific needs. This guide aims to demystify TiO2 grades and assist buyers in sourcing effectively from manufacturers.

Key Differentiating Factors for TiO2 Grades

The classification of Titanium Dioxide grades primarily revolves around three main factors:

  1. Crystal Structure: The most common crystalline forms are Rutile and Anatase.
  2. Application Type: Whether it’s intended for pigmentary (coloring) or non-pigmentary (e.g., catalyst, UV absorption) uses.
  3. Purity and Particle Size: Critical for specific industries like food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.

1. Crystal Structure: Rutile vs. Anatase

  • Rutile Titanium Dioxide: This is the most prevalent form, known for its higher refractive index, superior light scattering efficiency, and excellent durability. Rutile TiO2 offers better opacity, tinting strength, and weather resistance, making it the preferred choice for demanding applications such as high-performance paints, durable plastics, and exterior coatings. If your application requires long-term UV protection and color stability, seeking Rutile TiO2 from a reputable manufacturer is advisable.
  • Anatase Titanium Dioxide: Anatase has a lower refractive index and is less durable than rutile. It is often used in applications where these specific properties are acceptable or beneficial, such as interior paints, paper manufacturing, and certain printing inks. It can also exhibit stronger photocatalytic activity under UV light.

2. Application-Based Grades

  • Pigmentary Grades: These are the most common and are characterized by their high opacity, brightness, and tinting strength. They are extensively used in paints, coatings, plastics, inks, and paper. Manufacturers produce these grades with controlled particle sizes and surface treatments to optimize performance in these applications. When you buy TiO2 for coloring, focus on these pigmentary grades.
  • Non-Pigmentary Grades: These grades are tailored for specific functional properties beyond color. Examples include:
    • Catalytic Grades: Used as photocatalysts in environmental applications like air and water purification, and in self-cleaning surfaces.
    • Cosmetic Grades: Specially processed to be ultra-fine with high purity for UV filtering and whitening in sunscreens and makeup.
    • Food Grades: High purity TiO2 used as a food colorant (E171), though regulations vary globally.
    • Pharmaceutical Grades: Used in tablet coatings and as an opacifier in medicines.

3. Purity and Particle Size

For highly regulated industries like food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, the purity of TiO2 is paramount. This involves strict limits on heavy metals and other contaminants. Particle size, especially for nano-grades, is also critical for performance in UV filters and photocatalysis. A reliable manufacturer will provide detailed specifications and certificates of analysis (CoA) for their products.

Sourcing TiO2 Effectively

As a manufacturer of various grades of Titanium Dioxide, we emphasize the importance of choosing the right grade for your application. By understanding the differences between Rutile and Anatase, and between pigmentary and non-pigmentary uses, you can make informed purchasing decisions.

We invite you to explore our comprehensive range of Titanium Dioxide products. Whether you need high-opacity Rutile TiO2 for your coatings, UV-resistant grades for plastics, or pure TiO2 for cosmetic applications, we are your trusted manufacturer and supplier. Contact us for detailed product specifications and to discuss your procurement needs.