Nanoparticle research presents wide scope for the development of novel solutions in the field of healthcare, cosmetics, optics and electronics. Altering their molecular and atomic states results in unexpected outcomes, which may not be possible by using the materials in their original states. This article deals with the properties and applications of titanium oxide nanoparticles.
Titanium oxide (TiO2) is available in the form of nanocrystals or nanodots having a high surface area. They exhibit magnetic properties. Titanium belongs to Block D, Period 4 while oxygen belongs to Block P, Period 2 of the periodic table. Titanium oxide is also known as flamenco, rutile, titanium dioxide and dioxotitanium. Titanium oxide nanoparticles are known for their ability to inhibit bacterial growth and prevent further formation of cell structures.
Chemical Properties
The following tables list the chemical properties of titanium oxide.
| Chemical Data |
| Chemical symbol |
TiO2 |
| CAS No |
1317-80-2 |
| Group |
Titanium 4
Oxygen 16 |
| Electronic configuration |
Titanium [Ar] 3d2 4s2
Oxygen [He] 2s2 2p4 |
| Chemical Composition |
| Element |
Content (%) |
| Titanium |
59.93 |
| Oxygen |
40.55 |
Physical Properties
Titanium oxide nanoparticles appear in the form of black hexagonal crystals. The table below provides the physical properties of these nanoparticles.
| Properties |
Metric |
Imperial |
| Density |
4.23 g/cm3 |
0.152 lb/in3 |
| Molar Mass |
79.9378 g/mol |
- |
Thermal Properties
The thermal properties of titanium oxide nanoparticles are as below.
| Properties |
Metric |
Imperial |
| Melting Point |
1,843° C |
3,349° F |
| Boiling Point |
2,972° C |
5,382° F |
Applications
Given below are some of the chief applications of titanium oxide:
- Titanium oxide exhibits good photo catalytic properties, hence is used in antiseptic and antibacterial compositions
- Degrading organic contaminants and germs
- As a UV-resistant material
- Manufacture of printing ink, self-cleaning ceramics and glass, coating, etc.
- Making of cosmetic products such as sunscreen creams, whitening creams, morning and night creams, skin milks, etc.
- Used in the paper industry for improving the opacity of paper.
Source: AZoNano