Titanium Dioxide In Makeup-What Do We Use Titanium Dioxide For
Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a versatile substance used in a wide range of applications due to its unique properties, such as its brightness, opacity, and refractive index. Here are some of the primary uses for titanium dioxide:
1. **Paints and Coatings**: Titanium dioxide is a common pigment used in paints, providing a white color and opacity. It is also used in coatings to give a base white or to enhance brightness and hiding power.
2. **Plastics**: It serves as a pigment in the plastic industry to make products white or to add opacity. It is also used in the production of plastic items like toys, medical devices, and other consumer products where a white or colored appearance is desired.
3. **Printing Inks**: In the printing industry, titanium dioxide is used to improve the opacity and whiteness of inks.
4. **Paper**: It is used in paper manufacturing to increase opacity and brightness, which improves the contrast of the printed matter.
5. **Cosmetics**: Titanium dioxide is used in sunscreen products as a UV-blocking agent and as a pigment in other cosmetic products like powders, foundations, and nail polish.
6. **Food Additives**: It is used as a colorant in food and is known by the E number E171. It provides a white or creamy color to a variety of products, including candies, chocolates, and toothpaste.
7. **Medicine**: In the pharmaceutical industry, it is used as a pigment to coat tablets and as a component in some medications.
8. **Fertilizers**: Titanium dioxide can be used in fertilizers to increase the reflectivity of the granules, which can help in reducing the granule’s temperature and maintaining its integrity during storage.
9. **Ceramics and Glass**: It is used in the production of ceramics to improve opacity and as a polishing agent. In glass manufacturing, it can be used to remove color and increase clarity.
10. **Solar Cells**: In the production of certain types of solar cells, titanium dioxide is used as a component in the dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) to increase their efficiency.
11. **Self-Cleaning Products**: Titanium dioxide has photocatalytic properties, which means it can break down organic matter when exposed to sunlight. This property is used in self-cleaning products like tiles and glass.
12. **Textiles**: It can be used in textiles to provide whiteness and opacity, as well as to confer certain functionalities like UV protection.
Titanium dioxide’s widespread use is due to its nontoxicity, stability, and effectiveness as a pigment and UV blocker. However, concerns about its potential impact on health and the environment, especially in its nano form, have led to increased scrutiny and regulation of its use in certain applications.