When raw material prices become more competitive, the first question from many paint manufacturers is usually:
“How can we buy TiO₂ at a lower price?”
But perhaps there is a better question:
“How can we reduce the total formulation cost without sacrificing coating performance?”
TiO₂ remains one of the most important raw materials in paint and coatings.
Recent market data shows that the TiO₂ market is still facing relatively weak downstream demand, while supply and inventory pressure are different among producers. This creates more room for buyers to compare suppliers, grades and purchasing strategies.
But reducing the TiO₂ purchasing price is not always the only way to reduce formulation costs.
This is where Barium Sulfate can become interesting.
In some coating formulations, BaSO₄ can be used as a functional filler alongside TiO₂.
The objective is not to simply replace TiO₂ with BaSO₄.
TiO₂ and BaSO₄ have different functions and performance characteristics.
Instead, formulators can consider whether an appropriate combination can achieve the required:
• Opacity
• Whiteness
• Gloss
• Dispersion
• Density
• Mechanical properties
• Cost efficiency
The key point is “cost per formulation”, not simply “price per ton”.
For example, buying a cheaper TiO₂ grade may look attractive initially.
But if the dosage needs to increase to achieve the same hiding power, the actual formulation cost may not decrease.
Likewise, choosing a lower-cost filler without considering particle size, dispersion and compatibility may create problems during production.
So for paint manufacturers, the better purchasing strategy may be:
TiO₂ + functional fillers + formulation optimization
rather than simply:
“Find the cheapest TiO₂.”
From a supplier’s perspective, I believe this is becoming increasingly important for global buyers.
When customers ask me about TiO₂ or Barium Sulfate, I prefer to understand the application first:
What type of coating are you producing?
What TiO₂ grade are you currently using?
What is your current dosage?
Are you already using BaSO₄ or another filler?
Because sometimes the best cost-saving opportunity is not a lower price for one raw material.
It is finding the right combination of raw materials for the entire formulation.

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Post time: Sep-07-2026
