It’s produced through the sulfate or chloride process, which both involve treating titanium ore with sulfuric or hydrochloric acid to produce titanium sulfate or titanium chloride. These materials are then further processed to remove impurities and produce titanium dioxide in its final form.

This white pigment composed of barium sulfate and zinc sulfide, is influenced by several market drivers and trends. One significant driver is the expanding demand for lithopone in the paint and coating industry, owing to its excellent hiding power and (ultraviolet) UV resistance. The construction sector also propels the market growth of this compound, as it is widely used in architectural coatings for its durability and weather resistance. Additionally, the rising popularity of lithopone in the plastic and rubber industries, driven by its ability to enhance product opacity and stability, contributes to market expansion. Trends in this compound market include a growing emphasis on eco-friendly alternatives, stimulating research and development of sustainable production processes. Furthermore, the increasing focus on product quality and performance, along with advancements in nanotechnology applications, presents new opportunities for lithopone market players. Overall, the evolving landscape of industries utilizing this compound underscores its dynamic market, driven by both traditional applications and emerging trends.

Lithopone was developed in the 1870s as a substitute for lead carbonate (lead white), to overcome its drawbacks of toxicity and poor weathering resistance. Within a few years, titanium dioxide displaced lithopone to become the white pigment (PW6) par excellence in the industry and the world’s best-selling inorganic pigment. However, titanium is a product whose price is subject to large price variations due to product availability. These price increases affect the competitiveness of finished products, and so the search for an alternative to titanium dioxide has generated a variety of possibilities to optimise its use. 

PH value