What's the Verdict?



Despite a bullish trends ruling the market for the bulk of the period, the North American market had mixed sentiments in the fourth quarter of 2021. This was mostly due to the adequate pushback from the supply-demand imbalance, which was further compounded by rising natural gas prices, which had taken a proper toll on the future production of numerous minerals, including titanium dioxide. An increase in COVID instances had prompted concerns in ore feedstock. As a result, during the fourth quarter of 2021, the FD UGSC (USA) quarterly average negotiations for the chemical CP Rutile Grade were finalised at USD 4434 per tonne.
It offers several advantages in various applications. Its excellent opacity and brightness make it a popular choice in the production of paints, coatings, and printing inks, providing a cost-effective alternative to titanium dioxide. Lithopone's chemical stability enhances its durability in outdoor environments, making it suitable for outdoor coatings. Additionally, its low reactivity and compatibility with other pigments contribute to its versatility. Beyond coatings, lithopone finds utility in plastics, rubber, and paper industries. Overall, its multifaceted advantages and broad applications underscore this compound's significance in diverse industrial sectors.
In industrial settings, people can be exposed to titanium dioxide through inhalation. Inhalation exposure to titanium dioxide is exceedingly rare for most people.




Lithopone powder is a versatile and indispensable ingredient in various industries, contributing to the quality, durability, and aesthetic appeal of numerous products. From paints and coatings to plastics and ceramics, its high opacity, UV resistance, and cost-effectiveness make it a preferred choice for manufacturers worldwide. As advancements in manufacturing and formulation techniques continue, lithopone powder is expected to remain a key player in the global pigment market, fulfilling diverse needs and driving innovation across industries.
Rebecca Capua is an assistant conservator in the Paper Conservation Department at the Metropolitan Museum of Art since 2009. She received an MA in art history and an Advanced Certificate in art conservation from the Conservation Center, Institute of Fine Arts, New York University in 2007. Her primary area of research is on the materials of American artists of the late 19th and early 20th century. Address: The Sherman Fairchild Center for the Conservation of Works on Paper, Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10028. Email: rebecca.capua@metmuseum.org.
This classification was given, as some animal studies found that inhaling titanium dioxide dust might cause the development of lung tumors. However, IARC concluded that food products containing this additive do not pose this risk (11).