Our metals: titanium
Titanium
Titanium has the highest strength-to-density ratio of any metallic element, and it is used in wide variety of sectors, including aerospace, national defense, chemical processing, desalination, automotive, health care, communications, sporting goods, and many others. Titanium in its oxide form also is used in the manufacture of pigments in paints, plastics and paper, and is a photocatalyst.
Applications
Commercial Aviation
Built for efficiency and endurance, titanium is a critical material in commercial aircraft, reducing structural weight so planes can carry more passengers farther on less fuel.
Paints, Coatings & Plastics
Titanium dioxide brightens the paints, coatings, plastics, and paper products used by people around the world every day.
Naval Vessels & Submarines
From submarine hulls to naval warships, titanium withstands the most punishing environments on earth while maintaining structural integrity under extreme pressure.
Combat Vehicle Protection
Significantly lighter than steel yet equally strong, titanium armor plating protects military vehicles and personnel in active combat environments.
Medical Implants
Joint replacements, dental hardware, and surgical implants made from titanium are accepted by the human body as its own, making it the gold standard in medical devices.
Military Aircraft & Defense
From fighter jets to attack aircraft, titanium is a cornerstone of modern military aviation, providing the strength needed to withstand extreme combat conditions while keeping aircraft light and agile.
Titanium Demand Drivers
Demand in commercial aviation
Production backlogs at Boeing underpin a significant portion of US demand for titanium metal and therefore titanium sponge.
Increased use in advanced military fighter jets
The F-22 utilizes 9,000+ lbs. of titanium, comprising approximately 42% of the aircraft’s weight.
Extensive consumption of TiO₂ across multiple markets
TiO₂ Pigments (paints, coatings, plastics): largest-volume Ti application, growing at 6%+ CAGR globally.
Titanium: Element 22
To learn more about the element Titanium, please see the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Titanium page here.