Titanium dioxide (TiO2): Definition, Function, Uses, and Health Risks
Titanium dioxide, also known as TiO2, is a white inorganic compound which is widely used in many industries. It has a variety of functions and applications, including its use as a pigment in paints, plastics, sunscreens, and cosmetics, as a photocatalyst for wastewater purification, and as a nanomaterial for various medical applications. While titanium dioxide can be beneficial, it also has potential health risks associated with it, and its use should be carefully evaluated on a case by case basis.
What Is Titanium Dioxide?
Titanium dioxide is an oxide of the metal titanium. Its chemical formula is TiO2, and it exists in two different crystalline forms: anatase and rutile. The anatase form has tetragonal- and monoclinic-shaped crystals, while the rutile form has orthorhombic and tetragonal-shaped crystals. It is odorless and practically insoluble in water, but soluble in some acids. Titanium dioxide occurs naturally in the form of a mineral called rutile, which is found in sedimentary and igneous rocks, as well as in some soils.
Function Of Titanium Dioxide
Titanium dioxide has a variety of uses, the most common of which is as a pigment for paints and plastics. In these applications, it provides bright, white, and highly reflective qualities, allowing for greater color intensity in pigments. It also has a variety of reflective properties which make it well suited for use in cosmetics, sunscreens, and other skincare products. Titanium dioxide is also used as an photocatalyst for water purification; when used in conjunction with ultraviolet radiation, it can be used to break down organics and reduce harmful substances in wastewater.
In the medical field, titanium dioxide has been used as a nanomaterial to create targeted drug delivery systems and to facilitate targeted drug absorption in the body. It is also used as a biocompatible coating for implants, such as hip and knee replacements, to reduce inflammation and encourage bone regrowth. It is also used in biomedical imaging systems, such as positron emission tomography.
Uses Of Titanium Dioxide
Titanium dioxide is most commonly used as a pigment for paints, plastics, and other products, due to its bright, white, and highly reflective qualities. It is also used as a photocatalyst for water purification and waste treatment, and as a nanomaterial for medical applications. It can be used to make highly reflective surfaces for mirrors, to provide a white background for computer screens, and to produce heat resistant, corrosion resistant, and long lasting coatings for industrial products.
Health Risks Of Titanium Dioxide
Titanium dioxide is considered to be a non-toxic material, and it is approved for use in food and as a pigment for cosmetic products. However, it has been shown to have potential health risks associated with it. When inhaled, titanium dioxide has been linked to respiratory irritation, lung inflammation, and even pulmonary fibrosis. In the new laboratory studies, titanium dioxide nanoparticles have been found to cause inflammation and oxidative stress in human epithelial cells, which can result in DNA damage and cell death. It is also believed to be a possible cause of pulmonary fibrosis. Finally, titanium dioxide has been linked to an increased risk of skin cancer, although further research is needed to confirm this risk.
Conclusion
Titanium dioxide has a variety of uses and applications, from being used a pigment in paints and cosmetics, to being used as a photocatalyst for wastewater purification, and as a nanomaterial for medical applications. While titanium dioxide can be beneficial, it also has potential health risks associated with it, and its use should be carefully evaluated on a case by case basis.
