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WHAT IS TITANIUM?

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Titanium (Ti), is a lightweight metal, that has a variety of practical applications. It is normally alloyed with other metals such as, aluminium, iron, vanadium or molybdenum, depending on its potential use. Titanium ore is very common and distributed around the world, being mined in Australia, South Africa, China, India, USA and Canada.

PROPERTIES: Titanium has half the density of steel, making it a lightweight replacement. Titanium has a similar tensile strength to steel. It has a very high melting point, 1670oC. Titanium resists corrosion and when exposed to air, it forms an oxide layer, that prevents further corrosion. It is extremely resistant to acids and salt water. It is non-magnetic. Titanium is a poor conductor of heat.

SOME PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Titanium alloys are used in the aerospace industry, for example, the manufacture of turbine blades for jet engines. Titanium pipe is used by the oil industry, as it is not corroded by sea water. It is ideal for the construction of desalination plants, that process drinking water from sea water, due to its corrosion resistance. It is used by the electronics industry, for the manufacture of superior PCBs, used in hostile environments. The medical world uses titanium products (dental and orthopaedic implants). Titanium has military and marine applications. As it is non magnetic, it is used in the manufacture of sensitive computer hard drives.

TITANIUM - EXAMINATION QUESTIONS

1. List five physical properties of Titanium. (5 marks)

2. Describe four practical applications of titanium. (4 marks)

3. Name five countries that mine titanium ore. (5 marks)

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