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The natural sources of titanium oxide powder
There are three main crystalline minerals in nature, which yield considerable amounts of titanium oxide powder and these minerals are named as Rutile, Anatase and Brookite. But Rutile is known as the most commonly available titanium dioxide producing mineral and this polymorph is considered to be its most stable variety available till now.
Titanium oxide is also found in the Ries crater of Bavaria, located in southeast Germany, as two varieties that are formed due to very high pressure. But for commercial purposes, titanium dioxide can be derived in large amount from Ilmenite, the biggest titanium oxide form containing ore available on the earth.
The vital uses of titanium oxide powder
Due to its bright white in color and uncommonly high refractive index, this powder is successfully used as one of the primary ingredients for manufacturing paints, varnishes, coatings and inks, where white pigmentation is necessary to bring the bright colored effect to the products. Due to its ability of forming a fine film, titanium oxide is used as an optical coating in dielectric mirrors and gemstones.
This pigmented powder is also used in bringing a pearlescent finish to some special cosmetics, like sunscreen lotions and tattoo material. These crystallized fine particles are also used in the production of paper, glazed ceramics, plastic materials and certain medicines that are sold in the form of pills or tablets. Due to its high stability, this chemical is also used as a photocatalyst in various chemical reactions.