Titanium Dioxide Coatings in Medical Device Applications

Abstract

Titanium dioxide (TiO2, titania) is a widely abundant and inexpensive material. In bulk form it is produced as a white powder and it is the most widely used white pigment because of its brightness and very high refractive index (n=2.4). Applications include filler pigment in paints, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food products (such as E171, e.g., white lettering on M&Ms) and toothpaste. When deposited as a thin film, its refractive index and color make it an excellent reflective optical coating for dielectric mirrors.