Definition

Noun: 1. A white inorganic compound: Titanium oxide is a chemical compound consisting of titanium and oxygen. It is most commonly found in nature as the mineral rutile. 2. A white pigment: In its processed, powdered form, titanium oxide is valued as a pigment for its exceptional ability to whiten and opacity materials. Its key properties are its high covering power (it hides underlying colors effectively) and its durability (it resists fading and degradation).

Usage Examples

• As a compound/material:
  • The geologist identified the sample as titanium oxide in its crystalline form.
  • The sunscreen's active ingredient is micronized titanium oxide.
• As a pigment:
  • The paint manufacturer uses titanium oxide to achieve a bright, opaque white.
  • For a frosting that is pure white, confectioners often add food-grade titanium oxide.

Advanced Usage

• In scientific contexts: The term often refers specifically to titanium dioxide (TiO₂), which is the most common and commercially significant oxide of titanium. It is a wide-bandgap semiconductor used in photocatalysis and solar cells.
  • The research focuses on the photocatalytic properties of titanium oxide for water purification.

Variants and Related Words

• Titanium dioxide (TiO₂): The precise chemical name for the most prevalent form of titanium oxide used in industry.
• Rutile, Anatase, Brookite: The names of the three main natural mineral forms of titanium oxide (titanium dioxide).
• Titania: A traditional or poetic name for titanium oxide, sometimes used in literature or older scientific texts.

Synonyms

• Titanium dioxide (scientific synonym)
• Titania (less common, traditional)
• White pigment CI 77891 (its designation in the cosmetics and color index)

Related Phrases/Compounds

• Titanium oxide nanoparticle: An ultrafine particle of titanium oxide, studied for its unique properties in technology and medicine.
  • The new coating contains titanium oxide nanoparticles for self-cleaning effects.

Noun

1. a white powder used as a pigment for its high covering power and durability