Unlock Cost Savings & Performance: How to Reduce TiO2 Usage in High-Hiding Coatings

Struggling with the high cost and carbon footprint of Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) in your high-opacity coatings? You're not alone. TiO2 is essential for whiteness and hiding power but is often the most expensive raw material. Here are proven strategies to cut TiO2 usage without compromising quality.

1.Partial Substitution with Advanced Functional Fillers

A highly effective method is using innovative white functional fillers like Sub-titanium Powder (e.g., T188). This eco-friendly, inorganic material (composed of SiO2, Al2O3, TiO2) can replace 15-50% of TiO2. Specifically, T188 can substitute about 25% of TiO2, offering comparable whiteness (94-97) and hiding power while reducing raw material costs by 15-20%. Its excellent dispersion, high weather resistance, and ability to enhance film hardness make it a smart, sustainable alternative.

2. Optimize TiO2 Efficiency with Polymer Technology

Enhance the hiding efficiency of the TiO2 you do use. Technologies like EVOQUE™ Pre-Composite Polymer form a polymer-pigment composite with TiO2, improving its light-scattering efficiency. This can reduce the required TiO2 in a formulation by 15-20% while also improving stain and corrosion resistance. This approach tackles the core issue of "diminishing returns" from simply adding more TiO2.

3. Master Dispersion and Particle Optimization

The hiding power of TiO2 depends heavily on its particle size and dispersion. Optimal light scattering occurs when particle size is about half the wavelength of visible light (~280nm). Poor dispersion leads to agglomeration, effectively increasing particle size and reducing hiding power. Using effective dispersants (0.3-0.5%) is crucial to achieve a stable suspension and prevent flocculation, maximizing the opacity from each TiO2 particle.

4. Adopt Novel Formulation and Application Concepts

Rethink traditional formulation goals. Emerging "Self-Build Technology" aims to achieve complete opacity in real-time during application, potentially reducing the need for multiple coats (and thus total pigment volume). The focus shifts from just adhesion to controlled opacity build-up, challenging conventional layering methods.