Does Titanium Dioxide React with Strong Acids and Oxidizers?

[SkepticJ]

I've thought of titanium dioxide as a very inert material--until yesterday when I was reading its MSDS and found out it shouldn't be combined with strong acids or oxidizers. Why? Is this at room temperature or several hundred °C?

Not combining it with reactive metals makes sense to me--it's an oxygen donor at elevated temperatures, but at room temperature it's nonreactive.

 

[SkepticJ]

Oh, I think I might have my answer now: it's functioning as a catalyst in reactions involving oxidizers and/or acids; it's not chemically altered itself by them.

 

[quicknote]

Titanium dioxide is commonly known as a very inert material, meaning it does not readily react with other substances. This is due to its strong chemical bonds and high stability. However, as you have discovered, there are certain conditions under which titanium dioxide can react with other substances, specifically strong acids and oxidizers.

The reason for this is that titanium dioxide has a high affinity for oxygen. In the presence of strong acids or oxidizers, the titanium dioxide can donate its oxygen atoms, leading to a chemical reaction. This reaction can occur at both room temperature and elevated temperatures, although the rate of reaction may be different.

It is important to follow the safety precautions outlined in the MSDS for titanium dioxide, as these substances can cause it to react and potentially release harmful gases or fumes. It is also important to handle titanium dioxide with care and avoid mixing it with these substances to prevent any unexpected reactions.

In summary, while titanium dioxide is generally considered an inert material, it is important to be aware of its reactivity with certain substances, especially strong acids and oxidizers. This knowledge will help ensure safe handling and use of titanium dioxide in various applications.