OUR PRODUCTS
Titaniferous Minerals
Ilmenite, rutile and to a lesser extent leucoxene are the sources of titanium dioxide
(TiO2).
TiO2 is a white powder with brilliant whiteness,
high opacity, tremendous covering power and resistance to colour change. The major use of
TiO2 is in coatings whilst the plastic, printing,
inks and paper industries are large consumers. Food colourings, fabric delustering agents,
sunscreens and cosmetics form part of the wide customer base.
Ilmenite is consumed as a primary feedstock in both sulphate route and chloride route
pigment production and in the manufacture of titanium slags and synthetic rutile which
in turn are consumed in the manufacture of white pigment.
A large amount of rutile is used in the pigment and welding industries. Rutile is also used
to make titanium metal which is light, strong and ideal for aircraft component manufacture,
golf clubs, racing cycles and other sports equipment. Titanium metal is highly resistant to
corrosion, an important quality for specialised uses like surgical implants and water
desalination plants. New technology for production of titanium metal is being developed
which is likely to increase usage.
Leucoxene is also used for welding electrodes and paint pigments. Each year the majority
of all titaniferous minerals produced are consumed by the global
TiO2 pigment industry.
Zircon
Zircon is a key raw material used in the production of opacifiers, glazes and frits, floor
and decorative tiles, sanitary ware, glass and steel refractories, metal castings and
specialised glass.
China is responsible for 32% of global consumption of Zircon products.
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