Effective communication with titanium dioxide (TiO₂) suppliers requires understanding technical terminology and key performance indicators. Using the right “industry language” not only facilitates clearer discussions but also ensures both parties align on quality, performance, and expectations. This guide covers essential terms and metrics to streamline interactions with TiO₂ technical teams.
1. Key Technical Terminology (“Jargon”)
A. Production Process Terms
- Chloride Process: High-purity TiO₂ production using chlorine gas and rutile ore.
- Sulfate Process: TiO₂ production using sulfuric acid and ilmenite ore.
- Calcination: High-temperature treatment to achieve crystal structure.
- Surface Treatment: Application of inorganic/organic coatings to enhance performance.
B. Product Performance Terms
- Opacity/Hiding Power: Ability to obscure underlying surfaces (measured via Contrast Ratio).
- Dispersibility: Ease of integrating TiO₂ into formulations (Hegman Grind Gauge).
- Weather Resistance: Durability under UV/environmental exposure (QUV Testing).
- Photocatalytic Activity: Reactivity under UV light (critical for stability).
C. Quality Control Terms
- Batch Consistency: Uniformity between production lots.
- Particle Size Distribution (PSD): Range and consistency of particle sizes.
- Oil Absorption (OA): Amount of oil needed to form a paste (indicates porosity).
2. Essential Performance Metrics
A. Chemical Properties
- TiO₂ Content: Purity percentage (e.g., ≥93% for rutile grade).
- pH Value: Acidity/alkalinity (typically 6.5–8.5 for most grades).
- Moisture Content: Critical for preventing clumping (<0.5% ideal).
B. Physical Properties
- Brightness/Whiteness (CIE L* Value): ≥98% for premium grades.
- Tinting Strength: Ability to whiten/opacify formulations.
- Specific Gravity: ~4.0 g/cm³ for rutile TiO₂.
C. Application-Specific Metrics
- Gloss Levels: For coatings (20°–85° gloss measurements).
- Abrasion Resistance: For plastics and paints (Taber Abrasion Test).
- UV Absorption: For outdoor applications (SPF Value).
3. Efficient Communication Practices
A. Preparation Before Discussions
- Share formulation details (resin types, solvents, additives).
- Specify application requirements (e.g., “exterior architectural paint”).
- Provide past issues (e.g., “dispersion problems in water-based systems”).
B. During Technical Meetings
- Use precise terms: “We need a chloride-process TiO₂ with low oil absorption for solvent-based coatings.”
- Reference standards: *”Must meet ASTM D476-20 Type II requirements.”*
- Request data: “Please share PSD curves and QUV testing reports.”
C. Documentation and Follow-Up
- Summarize agreements in technical memos.
- Define key metrics for trial evaluations.
- Set timelines for feedback and adjustments.
4. Common Scenarios and Solutions
Problem: Coating defects (e.g., seeding, poor dispersion).
Solution: Request TiO₂ with tighter PSD (e.g., 0.2–0.3 μm) and lower OA value.
Problem: UV degradation in plastics.
Solution: Use surface-treated rutile TiO₂ with silica/alumina coatings.
Problem: High viscosity in formulations.
Solution: Opt for TiO₂ with organic treatments for better wettability.
5. Building Long-Term Partnerships
- Joint Testing: Collaborate on application trials.
- Regular Reviews: Quarterly technical meetings to address challenges.
- Transparency: Share production changes affecting product performance.
6. Emerging Trends in TiO₂ Tech Talk
- Circular Economy: Discussions on recycled content and carbon footprint.
- Digitalization: Use of AI for predictive performance modeling.
- Sustainability Metrics: Tracking GHG emissions and water usage.
Conclusion
Mastering TiO₂ industry terminology and key metrics transforms supplier interactions from transactional to collaborative. This alignment accelerates problem-solving, reduces trial-and-error costs, and fosters innovation. Whether you’re a formulator, purchaser, or R&D specialist, speaking the same language as your technical team ensures optimal outcomes.
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Post time: Sep-08-2025