Titanium Oxide Nanopowder (TiO2, Anatase, 99.5%, 5nm)

Titanium oxide nanopowder (TiO2, Anatase, 99.5%, 5nm) is a highly refined form of titanium dioxide, characterized by its small particle size and high purity. This nanopowder, with its unique physical and chemical properties, finds widespread use in fields ranging from photocatalysis to electronics and environmental remediation. The anatase form of TiO2 is particularly valued for its photocatalytic properties, making it ideal for applications where light interaction and energy conversion are essential.

Composition and Structure

TiO2 (Titanium Dioxide):
Titanium dioxide is a naturally occurring oxide of titanium, most commonly found in its rutile, anatase, or brookite forms. Anatase is one of the most reactive polymorphs of TiO2, known for its higher photocatalytic activity compared to rutile. This form is particularly effective under UV light and is widely used in solar energy applications, air purification, and water treatment.
Anatase Phase:
The anatase phase of TiO2 is crystalline, offering enhanced surface area and reactivity compared to other phases. This structure facilitates efficient electron transport, which is critical in photocatalytic applications.
Purity (99.5%):
With a purity of 99.5%, this nanopowder has minimal impurities, ensuring high performance in sensitive applications such as drug delivery, catalysis, and electronic devices.
Particle Size (5 nm):
The nanopowder has an exceptionally small particle size of approximately 5 nanometers, which grants it unique properties at the nanoscale, such as increased surface area, improved reactivity, and enhanced interactions with light and other materials.

Properties

1. Photocatalytic Activity:
   TiO2 in the anatase form is widely recognized for its superior photocatalytic properties. When exposed to UV light, it generates electron-hole pairs that can initiate reactions, making it ideal for applications in energy conversion, pollutant degradation, and self-cleaning surfaces.
2. High Surface Area:
   Due to its nanoparticle size, the surface area of TiO2 is significantly enhanced, providing more active sites for chemical reactions. This is especially important in catalytic processes, where a larger surface area increases efficiency.
3. UV Light Absorption:
   Titanium dioxide effectively absorbs ultraviolet light, making it highly suitable for applications requiring UV absorption and energy conversion. This property is exploited in photocatalysis, water treatment, and UV protection in sunscreen formulations.
4. Stability and Durability:
   TiO2, especially in its anatase form, is chemically stable and resistant to corrosion, heat, and environmental conditions, making it durable in various industrial applications.
5. Non-toxic and Biocompatible:
   Titanium dioxide is generally considered safe and biocompatible, making it useful in medical and cosmetic applications. It is widely used in products such as sunscreen and in medical implants due to its lack of toxicity.

Applications

1. Photocatalysis and Environmental Remediation:
Pollutant Degradation:
TiO2 anatase nanoparticles are highly effective in breaking down organic pollutants in air and water through photocatalytic oxidation. This makes them ideal for use in environmental cleanup, including in air purifiers and water treatment systems.
Self-Cleaning Surfaces:
The photocatalytic properties of TiO2 make it useful in self-cleaning surfaces, where UV light activates the material to break down organic dirt and contaminants. It is applied in building materials, windows, and coatings for easy cleaning and maintenance.
Solar Energy Conversion:
TiO2 nanoparticles are increasingly used in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) and other solar energy applications. The nanopowder’s ability to absorb UV light and generate electron-hole pairs makes it suitable for converting solar energy into electrical energy.
Hydrogen Production:
In photocatalytic water splitting, TiO2 is employed to generate hydrogen from water using sunlight. This process has the potential for sustainable hydrogen production, which can be used as an alternative energy source.

2. Electronics and Energy Storage:
Energy Storage Devices:
Titanium dioxide nanopowder is used in energy storage systems, particularly in lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors, due to its high surface area and electrochemical properties. It enhances the efficiency and capacity of these devices.
Sensors:
TiO2 is utilized in sensors for detecting gases, chemicals, and pollutants, as its photocatalytic properties allow it to react to various substances, making it ideal for environmental monitoring and industrial applications.
Transparent Conductive Films:
TiO2 nanoparticles are employed in the development of transparent conductive films used in electronic devices such as touchscreens and solar cells. The material’s high conductivity and optical transparency make it ideal for these applications.

3. Cosmetics and Personal Care:
Sunscreens:
TiO2 is commonly used in sunscreens for its ability to block UV radiation. The nanoparticle form of titanium dioxide provides effective protection against UV rays without leaving a visible residue on the skin.
Cosmetic Pigments:
Due to its white color and non-toxic properties, TiO2 is also used as a pigment in cosmetics, such as in foundation, powders, and lotions, to provide a smooth texture and opacity.

4. Biomedical Applications:
Drug Delivery:
TiO2 nanoparticles are explored in the biomedical field for drug delivery applications. Due to their small size, high surface area, and biocompatibility, they can be functionalized to deliver drugs to specific locations in the body, improving treatment efficacy.
Diagnostic Imaging:
Titanium dioxide nanoparticles are investigated for use in diagnostic imaging and contrast agents in medical imaging technologies like MRI and X-ray due to their ability to enhance imaging resolution.

5. Coatings and Paints:
Protective Coatings:
TiO2 nanopowder is used in the production of durable and protective coatings for various materials, offering benefits such as UV protection, anti-fouling properties, and improved surface hardness.
Pigments in Paints:
In addition to its use in cosmetics, TiO2 is also a key ingredient in paints and coatings, providing opacity and color stability, especially in white and light-colored paints.

Safety and Handling

Health Considerations:
Titanium dioxide is generally regarded as safe for use in cosmetics, food products, and medical devices. However, as with all nanopowders, it is important to handle it with care to prevent inhalation or skin contact, which could potentially lead to irritation or other health effects. Protective equipment such as masks and gloves should be used when handling the material in bulk.
Environmental Impact:
TiO2 is considered environmentally friendly and non-toxic to most forms of life. However, as with all nanomaterials, the environmental impact of its widespread use is still being studied, especially concerning its behavior in aquatic and soil environments.

Summary

Titanium oxide nanopowder (TiO2, Anatase, 99.5%, 5nm) is a highly versatile material with excellent photocatalytic, electronic, and optical properties. Its small particle size and high surface area make it highly effective in a wide range of applications, from environmental remediation and energy conversion to biomedical uses and consumer products. With its non-toxic nature and stability, TiO2 nanopowder is a valuable material in both industrial and scientific fields, contributing to advances in technology and sustainability.