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Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is primarily produced using two methods: the sulfate process or the chloride process. The sulfate process involves digesting ilmenite or titanium slag with sulfuric acid, creating a solution from which titanium dioxide can be precipitated, then calcined to remove impurities. Although widely used due to its applicability to various raw materials, it generates waste by-products that necessitate comprehensive waste management strategies.
In contrast, the chloride process, which is gaining preference for its environmental and efficiency benefits, involves chlorinating titanium ore and coke in a fluidized bed reactor at high temperatures to produce titanium tetrachloride (TiCl4). This is then purified and reacted with oxygen to yield pure titanium dioxide and chlorine gas, the latter of which is recycled back into the process. This method is favored for its lower environmental impact and the higher quality of TiO2 produced, suitable for applications requiring superior brightness and opacity, such as in paints, coatings, and cosmetics.
Selecting the appropriate production process depends on the desired end use of the titanium dioxide, environmental regulations, and economic considerations. Continuous advancements are aimed at improving efficiency and reducing the environmental footprint of these processes.
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