Predicting Paint Properties from TiO2 Pigment Paint Properties

By Thomas R. Hanna

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is a finely divided white powder that does not react with most chemicals. Its unique ability to efficiently scatter light compared to other commercially available pigments such as clays and calcium carbonate has made it the pigment of choice for coatings re-quiring opacity and high hiding power. Typical amounts added to paint or coating formulas range from 0.5 lb/gal to 2.5 lb/gal.

There are many commercial TiO2 grades available from different TiO2 producers. These grades possess different properties which can have an impact on final paint performance and properties.

This article explains why these grades are different and the impact they can have on final paint properties. It is important to understand that TiO2 grades are differ-ent as a result of their design and the manufacturing process used to produce these pigments.