60 - aqueous solution of the desired grade of lithopone while the by-product remains in solution, from which it may be recovered by treating in a suitable manner.
- In addition to its use as a pigment, titanium dioxide also has a wide range of other applications. For example, it is used in sunscreens to protect skin from harmful UV rays. The photocatalytic properties of titanium dioxide allow it to break down organic compounds when exposed to sunlight, making it an effective agent for environmental remediation.
- In addition to healthcare, chemical products manufacturers also play a vital role in agriculture. Fertilizers, pesticides, and other agricultural chemicals help farmers grow crops more efficiently, ensuring that we have access to a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables year-round. Without these products, food shortages could become a regular occurrence, leading to hunger and malnutrition on a global scale.
In a study published in the journal Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology in 2020, researchers examined the effects of food additives titanium dioxide and silica on the intestinal tract by grouping and feeding mice three different food-grade particles — micro-TiO2, nano-TiO2, and nano-SiO2. With all three groups, researchers observed changes in the gut microbiota, particularly mucus-associated bacteria. Furthermore, all three groups experienced inflammatory damage to the intestine, but the nano-TiO2 displayed the most pronounced changes. The researchers wrote: “Our results suggest that the toxic effects on the intestine were due to reduced intestinal mucus barrier function and an increase in metabolite lipopolysaccharides which activated the expression of inflammatory factors downstream. In mice exposed to nano-TiO2, the intestinal PKC/TLR4/NF-κB signaling pathway was activated. These findings will raise awareness of toxicities associated with the use of food-grade TiO2 and SiO2.”
The market for anatase titanium dioxide has expanded significantly over the years, driven by growing demand from various sectors. Manufacturers are now focusing on optimizing the production processes to enhance the quality and performance of anatase TiO2. This includes advancements in synthesis methods to produce nanoparticles with improved dispersion and stability. Companies are investing in research and development to innovate new applications, particularly in the fields of renewable energy and sustainable materials.
A 2023 study published in the journal Environmental Research, scientists examined the effect of titanium dioxide nanoparticles on important gut bacteria in mice. Their results showed “the growth inhibitory effects could be associated with cell membrane damage caused by titanium dioxide nanoparticles to the bacterial strains. Metabolomics analysis showed that TiO2 NPs caused alterations in multiple metabolic pathways of gut bacteria, such as tryptophan and arginine metabolism, which were demonstrated to play crucial roles in regulating gut and host health.” The researchers also found that four different neuroprotective metabolites “were significantly reduced” in urine and in vitro bacteria and vivo urine samples. The researchers concluded: “Increasing evidence implies that the gut microbiome plays a profound role in regulating host metabolism. Our results illustrated that TiO2 NPs hindered the growth of four beneficial gut bacterial strains.”
THE OBSCURE HISTORY OF A UBIQUITOUS PIGMENT: PHOSPHORESCENT LITHOPONE AND ITS APPEARANCE ON DRAWINGS BY JOHN LA FARGE
Report Overview:
Lithopone is rather nontoxic, due to the insolubility of its components. It has been used in medicine as a radiocontrast agent. Lithopone is allowed to be in contact with foodstuffs in the US and Europe.[1]
It should also be considered that due to the low pH in the stomach, the increased dissolution of the TiO2 particles may increase its bioavailability and may facilitate the entry of titanium ions into the blood circulation. Despite the relatively large consumption of TiO2 as a food additive, no studies on the effect of pH on its absorption and bioavailability have been found in the literature. This can be attributed to a general belief that TiO2is completely insoluble. However, this is not completely true, as TiO2 particles show a certain degree of solubility.

Fig. 1. Weight loss (%) of vitaminB2@P25TiO2NPs.
3. The calcined product obtained by the ordinary zinc bismuth method is slurried into a slurry, which is sequentially treated with sodium silicate, aluminum sulfate or sodium aluminate and a surfactant, and then filtered, washed, dried and pulverized.
The main food categories contributing to dietary exposure of E171 are fine bakery wares, soups, broths and sauces (for infants, toddlers and adolescents); and soups, broths, sauces, salads and savoury based sandwich spreads (for children, adults and the elderly). Processed nuts are also a main contributing food category for adults and the elderly.
By reviewing wholesale lithopone MSDS quotes, businesses can ensure they are sourcing a quality product that meets their specific requirements while also prioritizing safety and regulatory compliance. It is important to work with reputable suppliers who provide accurate and up-to-date MSDS information to guarantee the safe and efficient use of lithopone in industrial applications.