Titanium Raw Materials

Titanium is a versatile metal that is widely used in various industries due to its exceptional strength, low density, and corrosion resistance. It is primarily obtained from two main raw materials: titanium dioxide and titanium sponge.

Titanium dioxide, also known as titanium(IV) oxide, is the most common source of titanium. It is a white, powdery substance that is extracted from various minerals, such as rutile and ilmenite. These minerals are typically found in beach sands and igneous rocks. The extraction process involves several steps, including crushing, grinding, and chemical treatment to remove impurities. The resulting titanium dioxide is then further processed to produce pure titanium metal.

Titanium sponge is another significant raw material for titanium production. It is a porous form of titanium that is obtained through the Kroll process. This process involves reducing titanium tetrachloride with magnesium in a high-temperature reaction. The reaction produces titanium sponge, which is then melted and cast into various shapes for further processing.

In addition to these primary raw materials, titanium can also be obtained from recycled titanium scrap. Recycling titanium not only reduces the demand for new raw materials but also helps in conserving energy and reducing environmental impact.

Overall, the classification of titanium raw materials includes titanium dioxide, titanium sponge, and recycled titanium scrap. These raw materials serve as the foundation for the production of titanium and its alloys, which find applications in industries such as aerospace, automotive, medical, and chemical.