Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) CAS 13463-67-7

Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) – Universal White Pigment and Physical UV Filter

Basic Information

• CAS Number: 13463-67-7

• Chemical Formula: TiO₂

• Molecular Weight: 79.87 g/mol

• INCI Name: Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891)

• Appearance: White, fine, odorless powder

• Density: 4.0–4.2 g/cm³

• Solubility: Insoluble in water and organic solvents

• Crystal Forms: Rutile (stable, high refractive index) and Anatase (photocatalytic)

• Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, protected from moisture and contamination

Overview
Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is the world’s most widely used white pigment and physical UV filter. It is valued for its exceptional whiteness, brightness, opacity, and photostability. Its high refractive index and light-scattering properties make it ideal for providing coverage, hiding power, and UV protection in a wide range of applications, including sunscreens, decorative cosmetics, paints, plastics, paper, and food products.

Synthesis
Titanium dioxide is produced from ilmenite or rutile ores using two main industrial processes:

• Sulfate process: Ore is digested with sulfuric acid, followed by neutralization, precipitation, and calcination.

• Chloride process: Ore is chlorinated to titanium tetrachloride, which is then oxidized to TiO₂ at high temperatures.
  Depending on the process and post-treatment, the product can be obtained in rutile or anatase crystal forms, with or without surface coatings (e.g., alumina, silica) to enhance dispersibility and reduce photocatalytic activity.

Physicochemical Properties

• High opacity and brightness: Provides excellent hiding power and whiteness.

• UV absorption: Effectively reflects and scatters UVA and UVB radiation (physical sunscreen).

• Chemical inertness: Resistant to acids, alkalis, and most solvents.

• Thermal stability: Stable up to ~1800°C.

• Photostability: Does not degrade under UV exposure (when coated).

• Non-toxic and safe: Approved for use in cosmetics, food (E171), and pharmaceuticals.

Applications

• Sunscreens: Physical UV filter in face and body sunscreens, daily moisturizers with SPF – provides broad-spectrum protection with excellent photostability.

• Decorative cosmetics: Foundations, powders, concealers, lipsticks, eyeshadows – provides opacity, coverage, and UV protection.

• Paints and coatings: Primary white pigment for architectural, industrial, and automotive coatings – ensures maximum hiding power and durability.

• Plastics and rubber: Filler and whitening agent for improved brightness and UV resistance.

• Paper industry: Coating and filling pigment for high-brightness papers.

• Food industry: Used as a food colorant (E171) in confectionery, chewing gum, and other products (subject to local regulations).

• Ceramics and glass: Opacifier and whitening agent in glazes and enamels.

Key Benefits

• Excellent whiteness, opacity, and hiding power.

• Broad-spectrum UV protection (UVA/UVB) as a physical filter.

• Photostable and safe for daily use.

• Inert, non-reactive, and chemically stable.

• Available in coated and uncoated grades for various applications.

• Approved for use in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals.

• Can be combined with other UV filters for enhanced protection.

• Provides a smooth, non-greasy feel in cosmetic formulations.

Recommended Use
Typical usage levels vary widely depending on the application:

• Sunscreens: 5–25% (conventional) or 5–15% (microfine/transparent).

• Color cosmetics: 1–20% for coverage and opacity.

• Paints and coatings: 10–30% of the formulation.

• For optimal dispersion, incorporate into the oil phase with high-shear mixing or use pre-dispersed pastes. Can be combined with other pigments and UV filters for tailored performance.

Safety and Handling

• Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in cosmetics, food, and pharmaceuticals at recommended concentrations.

• Low irritation potential; well-tolerated by skin.

• Avoid inhalation of dust – use appropriate personal protective equipment (gloves, dust mask, safety goggles).

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture.

• Shelf life: typically 24–36 months under recommended storage conditions.

Quality Assurance
Each batch is tested for purity, particle size distribution, heavy metals (lead, arsenic, mercury), and microbial contamination to ensure compliance with cosmetic, food, and industrial standards.