What is Titanium Dioxide?

Exploring Titanium Dioxide: Breaking Down The Science Behind Ceramic Coating’s Most Popular Additive

By fireballgraphicsusa@gmail.com

Many Automotive Ceramic Coatings contain a titanium derivative called Titanium Dioxide, Titania, or TiO2.  In modern industries, Titanium Dioxide is a pivotal substance with extensive applications, but why add it to Ceramic coatings? This blog post delves into the science behind TiO2, particularly highlighting its significance in SiO2-based ceramic coatings.

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What is Titanium Dioxide?

Tio2 is a natural derivative compound of titanium. Titanium Dioxide, commonly known as TiO2, is a naturally occurring oxide compound of titanium. It boasts a crystalline structure, exhibiting a highly stable and versatile chemical composition. TiO2 is widely found in minerals such as rutile, anatase, and brookite, each possessing distinct crystal structures.

Where does TiO2 come from?

Fireball Ceramic coatings contain extremely high sio2 content

TiO2 is abundant in nature, primarily derived from the mineral ilmenite. The extraction process involves separating TiO2 from iron and other impurities through various chemical and physical methods. Synthetic TiO2 can also be produced through industrial processes, resulting in a highly pure and consistent form of the compound.

Exploring the Practical Attributes of Titanium Dioxide

Paints and Ceramic Coatings:

  • TiO2 is widely used as a white pigment in paints and plastics. Its exceptional opacity and brightness make it an ideal choice for achieving desired colors. TiO2 is also incorporated in some high-end ceramic coatings, which reinforces the coating and provides several additional benefits which are discussed below.

Photocatalysis:

  • TiO2 exhibits photocatalytic properties, enabling it to decompose organic compounds and pollutants when exposed to light. This characteristic finds applications in air and water purification systems, and antimicrobial coatings.

Sunscreens:

  • TiO2 is a popular alternative to zinc in sunscreens due to its ability to reflect and scatter UV radiation. It is not as popular as zinc though, as titania only provides protection against UVB and limited protection against UVAI, while Zinc offers full protection from UVB, UVAI, and UVAII.

Medical Applications:

  • TiO2 nanoparticles have shown promising potential in medical applications, including drug delivery, tissue engineering, and antibacterial surfaces. Its biocompatibility makes it suitable for various biomedical purposes.

Electronic Materials:

  • TiO2 is employed in the development of advanced materials like solar cells, photovoltaics, and sensors. Its semiconducting properties and high refractive index make it suitable for optoelectronic applications.
Fireball Ceramic coatings contain extremely high sio2 content
Fireball Ceramic coatings contain extremely high sio2 content

Titanium Dioxide’s use in Ceramic Coatings

Titanium dioxide plays a crucial role in some high-end SiO2-based ceramic coatings, enhancing their existing aesthetic and protective properties and extending their lifespan. Here are some key features TiO2 provides:

  • Photocatalytic Properties: The photocatalytic activity of TiO2 enables SiO2-based ceramic coatings to break down organic compounds and pollutants when exposed to light. This natural effect helps prevent the buildup of dirt and grime.
  • Antimicrobial Properties: TiO2’s antimicrobial properties make SiO2-based ceramic coatings resistant to the growth of bacteria, mold, and other microorganisms. This feature is particularly valuable in healthcare settings, food processing plants, and other environments where hygiene is critical. However, these properties can also help fend off moss, lichen, and other hazards to older cars or cars stored in less-than-ideal environments.
  • Increased Hardness and Scratch Resistance: The addition of TiO2 to SiO2-based ceramic coatings enhances the coating’s hardness and scratch resistance. This makes the coating more durable and resilient, improving its ability to withstand wear and tear.
  • Improved Adhesion: TiO2 can help improve the adhesion of SiO2-based ceramic coatings to various surfaces. This property ensures a strong bond between the coating and the underlying surface, reducing the risk of peeling or delamination.
  • UV Resistance: TiO2’s UV resistance is leveraged in SiO2-based ceramic coatings to provide superior protection against the harmful effects of some spectrums of ultraviolet radiation. This property helps prevent the coating and paint from degrading prematurely.

These properties make TiO2-infused ceramic coatings ideal for a wide range of applications, including automotive, aerospace, marine, and industrial industries, where durability, protection, and performance are critical.

Convenient and Protective Titanium Dioxide Ceramic Coatings

Titanium Dioxide is an indispensable compound with a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. Its unique properties, including high stability, opacity, photocatalytic activity, and bonding strength, make it an invaluable reinforcement material in ceramic coatings. 

 

You can get the benefits of titania-infused ceramic coatings today at your local Fireball Installer. Get matched with a free quote from a professional, certified installer near you today.

On of our best Fireball Ceramic Coatings, DokDo, sits against a white backdrop

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