Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is one of the most widely produced and utilized inorganic materials in the world. Known for its exceptional brightness, chemical stability, non-toxicity, and functional versatility, TiO₂ plays a critical role across numerous industries. Among its polymorphic forms—anatase, rutile, and brookite—anatase TiO₂ is particularly valued for its high surface reactivity, photocatalytic performance, and optical properties.

In micron powder form, anatase titanium dioxide becomes even more versatile. Controlled particle size, high purity, and tailored surface chemistry make TiO₂ Anatase Micron Powder indispensable in coatings, plastics, construction materials, energy technologies, environmental remediation, and advanced research applications.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of what TiO₂ Anatase micron powder is, how it is produced, its key properties, and where it is used today, while also exploring future trends and emerging applications.

2. What Is Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂)?

Titanium dioxide is an inorganic compound composed of titanium and oxygen, with the chemical formula TiO₂. It occurs naturally in several mineral forms and is synthetically produced on a large scale for industrial use.

2.1 Polymorphs of Titanium Dioxide

TiO₂ exists mainly in three crystalline forms:

• Anatase

• Rutile

• Brookite

Each polymorph exhibits distinct physical and chemical properties. Anatase TiO₂ is metastable and can transform into rutile at elevated temperatures, but it offers superior surface activity and photocatalytic efficiency.

2.2 Why Anatase?

Anatase is preferred in applications where:

• High photocatalytic activity is required

• Strong UV absorption is needed

• Surface reactions dominate performance

3. Chemical and Physical Properties of TiO₂ Anatase Micron Powder

3.1 Chemical Properties

• Chemical formula: TiO₂

• Molar mass: 79.87 g/mol

• Oxidation state: Titanium in +4 state

• Chemical stability: Excellent resistance to acids, bases, and solvents

3.2 Physical Properties

• Crystal structure: Tetragonal (anatase)

• Color: White

• Density: ~3.9 g/cm³

• Band gap: ~3.2 eV

• Melting point: ~1843 °C

3.3 Advantages of Micron-Sized Anatase TiO₂

• Improved dispersion in matrices

• Balanced surface area vs. handling safety

• Consistent optical and mechanical performance

• Reduced agglomeration compared to nanoparticles

4. Natural Occurrence and Raw Materials

Titanium dioxide is derived from titanium-bearing minerals such as:

• Ilmenite (FeTiO₃)

• Rutile (TiO₂)

• Leucoxene

Major sources include Australia, South Africa, China, India, and parts of Africa and Scandinavia. These minerals are refined into high-purity TiO₂ through industrial processing routes.

5. Production Methods of Titanium Dioxide

5.1 Sulfate Process

The sulfate process is one of the oldest methods for producing TiO₂ and is especially suitable for anatase grades.

Process steps:

1. Digestion of ilmenite with sulfuric acid

2. Formation of titanyl sulfate

3. Hydrolysis to titanium hydroxide

4. Calcination to TiO₂ (anatase)

5. Milling and classification

Advantages:

• Suitable for anatase production

• Flexible raw material usage

Disadvantages:

• Higher waste generation

• More complex effluent treatment

5.2 Chloride Process

More commonly used for rutile, but adapted variants can produce high-purity anatase under controlled conditions.

Process steps:

1. Chlorination of titanium ore

2. Purification of TiCl₄

3. Oxidation to TiO₂

4. Particle finishing

Advantages:

• High purity

• Lower waste

5.3 Hydrothermal and Precipitation Methods

Used for specialty and high-performance anatase powders.

Benefits:

• Precise control over particle size

• High phase purity

• Tailored morphology

5.4 Micronization and Particle Size Control

After synthesis, TiO₂ is processed using:

• Jet milling

• Ball milling

• Air classification

This step defines the micron-grade specification, including D50, D90, and PSD uniformity.

6. Quality Parameters of TiO₂ Anatase Micron Powder

Key quality metrics include:

• Particle size distribution (D10 / D50 / D90)

• Purity level (≥99%)

• Phase composition (anatase %)

• Specific surface area (BET)

• Oil absorption

• Bulk and tap density

• Whiteness and brightness

These parameters directly impact application performance.

7. Applications of Titanium Dioxide Anatase Micron Powder

7.1 Paints and Coatings

TiO₂ is the most important white pigment globally.

Functions:

• High opacity

• UV resistance

• Weather durability

Anatase grades are often used in:

• Interior coatings

• Industrial primers

• Specialty coatings

7.2 Plastics and Polymers

In plastics, TiO₂ provides:

• Whiteness

• UV protection

• Thermal stability

Used in:

• PVC

• Polyolefins

• Engineering plastics

7.3 Construction Materials

TiO₂ anatase is incorporated into:

• Cement

• Concrete

• Tiles

Photocatalytic benefits:

• Self-cleaning surfaces

• Air pollutant degradation (NOx removal)

7.4 Photocatalysis and Environmental Applications

Anatase TiO₂ is the gold standard for photocatalysis.

Applications include:

• Water purification

• Air treatment

• Antibacterial surfaces

• Self-cleaning glass

7.5 Energy and Solar Technologies

TiO₂ anatase is widely used in:

• Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC)

• Perovskite solar cells

• Lithium-ion batteries (as additives or coatings)

7.6 Cosmetics and Personal Care

Micron-grade TiO₂ is used in:

• Sunscreens

• Skincare products

Role:

• UV-A and UV-B protection

• Opacifying agent

7.7 Paper and Printing

TiO₂ enhances:

• Brightness

• Opacity

• Print quality

7.8 Advanced Ceramics and Electronics

Used in:

• Dielectrics

• Sensors

• Capacitors

• Functional ceramics

8. Industries Using TiO₂ Anatase Today

9. Health, Safety, and Environmental Considerations

TiO₂ is generally considered safe when handled properly. However:

• Dust control is essential

• PPE is recommended during handling

• Compliance with REACH and local regulations is required

Anatase TiO₂ is often preferred in environmental technologies due to its non-toxic nature.

10. Market Trends and Future Outlook

10.1 Growth Drivers

• Urbanization and construction growth

• Demand for sustainable materials

• Air and water purification needs

• Expansion of solar and energy storage technologies

10.2 Emerging Trends

• Photocatalytic smart surfaces

• Hybrid TiO₂–carbon composites

• Advanced coatings with self-cleaning functionality

• Energy-efficient building materials

11. Anatase vs. Rutile: A Brief Comparison

12. Conclusion

Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) Micron Powder – Anatase is far more than a white pigment. It is a strategic, multifunctional material enabling cleaner environments, advanced energy systems, durable construction materials, and innovative industrial products.

Thanks to its unique combination of photocatalytic activity, chemical stability, optical performance, and scalability, anatase TiO₂ continues to be a cornerstone material in both traditional industries and next-generation technologies.

As sustainability, energy efficiency, and smart materials gain importance, TiO₂ Anatase Micron Powder will remain a key enabler of industrial and technological progress.