Advantages and Disadvantages of Sulphate and Chloride TiO2 in Plastics
The use of titanium dioxide in the plastics industry has been growing rapidly in recent years, with the plastic industry being the second largest user of titanium dioxide globally. This growth is largely thanks to the ability of titanium dioxide to improve the heat resistance, light resistance, and weather resistance of plastic products, as well as their mechanical strength, and overall durability.
One of the most important applications of titanium dioxide in the plastic industry is UPVC profiles, which have seen tremendous growth in China over the past decade. In 2008, the national profile output in China was 3.8 million tons, and the rutile TiO2 used was about 135,000 tons. With an annual increase of 10%, the national profile industry needs about 150,000 tons of TiO2 in 2009 and 165,000 tons in 2010.
However, the use of titanium dioxide in plastics is not without its drawbacks. The production of titanium dioxide often involves the use of sulfuric acid, which can have negative environmental impacts. Additionally, some types of titanium dioxide used in plastics are chlorinated, which can also have negative environmental impacts.
Despite these drawbacks, the increasing demand for plastic products with improved durability and weather resistance, combined with the growing awareness of the need for environmental protection and energy conservation, has made titanium dioxide an increasingly important component in the production of plastics. As such, research into more sustainable methods for the production of titanium dioxide, as well as alternatives to chlorinated types of titanium dioxide, will become increasingly important over time.
Overall, the use of titanium dioxide in plastics offers many benefits, but it is important to continue to research and develop sustainable and environmentally friendly methods for the production and use of this important component in the plastics industry.
