Titanium Dioxide Toxicity

Titanium dioxide is a substance that is a white powder. Normally, the TiO2is used for its excellent ability to scatter light.

As a result, making an object look more appealing by increasing brightness and opacity.

Titanium dioxide is also used in some foods as an additive to improve colour.

This has raised the debate amongst major regulatory bodies and other organisations over whether TiO2 is a toxic product if ingested by human or not.

Toxicity

According to the FDA, the use of TiO2 in the United States is regarded that the substance is not toxic to the human body if taken in small quantities.

As a result of this, all food products which use TiO2 must only comprise 1% of the compound. This is with regard to the weight of the product which is enough to get the desired output needed and won’t harm people.

However, TiO2 can still be toxic when inhaled which according to some animal tests has proven to cause lung cancer.

Side Effects of Titanium Dioxide Exposure

The side effects that one gets depends on where the substance gets in-contact with in the body. Here are some access routes in which TiO2 can cause side effects;

• Oral consumption– The substance has not been proved to have any side effects when ingested orally.
• Skin– if one gets in contact with the substance through the skin, only a minor irritation will occur.
• Inhaling– inhaling of the substance has been linked with lung cancer according to some tests by animal studies.
• Eye- contact– this may cause minor irritations to the eye.

First Aid Measures

1. If inhaled by accident remove the person from exposure and begin rescue breathing techniques if breathing has stopped together with CPR if heart has stopped. Finally transfer the person to a medical facility.
2. When in contact with skin, remove the contaminated clothing and wash contaminated part of skin.
3. When the substance gets in contact with the eye, flush with lots of water lifting the upper and lower lids.

Workplace Controls and Practices when Handling TiO2

1. All processing container must be labelled.
2. Provide eye washing fountains and showers just in case of emergencies.
3. Provide employees with proper training and with correct hazard information.
4. Change in clean cloth if clothe gets contaminated.
5. Wear protective gear like gloves, clothing and protective eye wear.
6. Use a vacuum or a wet method to reduce amount of dust when cleaning.
7. Keep a good monitor on the airborne chemical concentrations.
8. Use engineering options to control leaks that are of high concentrations.

Titanium dioxide can be ingested into the human body through various body parts which may cause various side effects to the body.

One of the harmful ways is by inhalation of the substance, which may cause lung cancer according to some animal tests done.

However, one can be able to prevent this by correct control and handle of the substance. Never the less if one is already exposed to the TiO2 substance, there are correct medical procedures that need to be followed to help with the side effects.

For all your Titanium Dioxide Toxicity information, contact Inter China Chemical.

More Resources

Titanium Dioxide Safety Facts – Source: NJ Safety

Is Titanium Dioxide Safe – Source: NIH

TiO2 in Cosmetics – Source: Campaign for Safe Cosmetics

What is the Risk of Titanium Dioxide – Michigan State University

TiO2 E171 – Source: EFSA