Essential Information On Titanium (Ti) Deposit In Nigeria

Unlike some of the other natural resources and minerals in Nigeria and in other parts of Africa, Titanium deposit in Nigeria isn’t vast as it’s currently found only in Ekiti State.

In Africa, the major countries where titanium can be found and as well mined commercially include South Africa, Sierra Leone, Kenya and even Mozambique.

 

 

Titanium is a transition metal located in group 4 of the periodic table with a symbol of Ti, it has an atomic number of 22, melting point of 1,668 °C and boiling point of 3,287 °C.

It is a shiny silver colour, low density and high strength and is highly resistant to corrosion in sea water, aqua regia, and chlorine.

When titanium combines with oxygen, it forms titanium dioxide (TiO2) which is the form titanium is mostly used in.

Titanium possess a strong quality and yet lighter than steel. It also has a very high melting temperature and because of these great physical and chemical properties, it is widely used in the aerospace industry.

Both titanium and titanium alloys are used for structural components for satellites, airplanes, and spacecraft and to make engines.

 

In the main producing Titanium countries in Africa excluding Nigeria, where the mining of this mineral resources is commercially viable, there have been challenges as regards to the environmental pollution which is mostly because of the main ore of titanium known as Rutile (primarily contain titanium dioxide).

 

Applications of Titanium

• Because of its strong lightweight, it is often used in airplanes.

• Used to produce of fireworks which give it a silvery-white sparks.

• In medicine, it is used to make hip joint replacement parts due to its bio-compatibility.

• It is also used to make armour plated vehicles for the military due to its strength.

• Due to its resistance to corrosion, it is used to make propeller shafts and other ship parts that will be exposed to ocean water.

• Titanium dioxide is used in paint, paper, varnishes, lacquers, plastics, fabrics, printing inks, roofing granules, and special coated fabrics.