Titanium Dioxide In Sunscreen-Why Is Titanium Dioxide Used
Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a versatile substance used across various industries due to its unique properties. Here are some of the primary reasons why titanium dioxide is used:
1. **Pigment in Paints and Coatings**: Titanium dioxide is one of the most widely used white pigments because of its brightness and opacity. It provides a clean, white finish and is used to enhance the hiding power of paints, making them more effective at covering the color of the underlying surface.
2. **Sunscreen Products**: In sunscreen lotions, titanium dioxide acts as a UV filter, protecting the skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. It is a physical blocker, reflecting UV rays away from the skin.
3. **Plastics**: It is used as a pigment in plastics to provide a white color and opacity. It can also be used to improve the durability of the plastic by providing UV protection, which helps prevent degradation from sunlight exposure.
4. **Paper**: In paper manufacturing, titanium dioxide is used to increase the opacity of the paper, allowing less light to pass through, which improves the contrast between the ink and the paper. This makes the print more vivid and easier to read.
5. **Food Additive**: Titanium dioxide is used as a food additive (E171) to give a white, opaque appearance to foods and medications. It is commonly found in candies, toothpaste, and pharmaceuticals.
6. **Ceramics and Glass**: In the production of ceramics and glass, titanium dioxide can be used to create a white or opaque appearance and to strengthen the material.
7. **Catalysis**: Titanium dioxide has photocatalytic properties, which means it can break down organic matter when exposed to light. This property is utilized in self-cleaning surfaces and air purification systems.
8. **Printing Inks**: It is used in printing inks to improve opacity and brilliance.
9. **Cosmetics**: In makeup products, it serves as a pigment to provide color and opacity, and it can also act as a thickener.
10. **Textiles**: Titanium dioxide can be used in textiles to provide opacity and UV protection.
It’s important to note that while titanium dioxide has many beneficial uses, there are also concerns about its potential impact on health and the environment, especially in its nanoparticle form. As such, its use is regulated in some applications, and research continues into its safety and alternative materials.