Skittles Titanium Dioxide-What Is Titanium Dioxide In
Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a white, powdery substance that is used in a wide variety of products and applications due to its excellent opacity and whiteness, as well as its UV-light absorbing properties. Here are some common uses of titanium dioxide:
1. **Paints and Coatings**: It is a common pigment used in paints, giving them a white color and opacity. It is also used in coatings to provide a reflective and protective layer.
2. **Plastics**: Titanium dioxide is used as a pigment in plastics to make them white or to give them a certain opacity. It can also be used to improve the durability of the plastic by providing UV protection.
3. **Printing Inks**: It serves as a pigment in printing inks to enhance opacity and color.
4. **Cosmetics**: In makeup and skincare products, it is used as a pigment to provide color and opacity, and also as a sunscreen agent due to its ability to reflect and scatter UV light.
5. **Food and Drugs**: In the food industry, it is used as a colorant to give a white or creamy color to products. It is also used in tablets and capsules as a coating agent.
6. **Ceramics and Glass**: Titanium dioxide can be found in ceramics to improve whiteness and opacity, and in glass manufacturing to act as a decolorizer.
7. **Paper**: It is used in paper to make it white and more opaque, which is especially important for printing purposes.
8. **Fertilizers**: It is sometimes used in fertilizers to provide a white, reflective coating that can enhance the appearance and effectiveness of the product.
9. **Textiles**: It can be used in textile manufacturing to provide whiteness and opacity to fabrics.
10. **Adhesives and Sealants**: Titanium dioxide can be found in adhesives and sealants to enhance opacity and durability.
Titanium dioxide is generally considered safe for use in these applications, but there have been concerns about its potential health effects when inhaled as a fine dust or when used in certain forms, such as nanoparticles. As a result, regulations and guidelines may vary by country and application.