What Is Potassium Titanate?
Potassium titanate is a synthetic inorganic compound with the chemical formula K2O·nTiO2, where n is an integer from 1 to 12. For instance, when n equals 6, the formula becomes K2O·6TiO2, referred to as potassium hexatitanate.
This compound is synthesized using the flux method, employing K2MoO4 or K2WO4 as flux, or via the melting method, where a mixture of TiO2, K2CO3, and K2MoO4 is melted at temperatures ranging from 1,200 to 1,500°C before cooling to crystallize.
Applications of Potassium Titanate
Potassium titanate varieties, such as potassium hexatitanate and potassium octatitanate, are prized for their excellent heat resistance, thermal insulation, and chemical resistance, finding widespread use in industrial applications.
Key uses include substitutes for asbestos, friction materials in brake pads and clutches, reinforcing agents for engineering plastics, filters, coatings, weather-resistant paints, fire-resistant insulation, and multilayer substrates.
Additionally, it serves in 3D printer filaments, where properties like formability, precision, strength, and rigidity are crucial.
Properties of Potassium Titanate
Potassium titanate, a white solid with the formula K2O·4TiO2 or K2Ti4O9, has a molecular weight of 413.7 and is identified by CAS number 12056-49-4.
Details such as melting point, boiling point, and flammability are currently unspecified. This compound remains chemically stable when stored at room temperature in a sealed, dry container. While no incompatible hazardous substances are known, water contact should be avoided. As properties can vary with different n values, consulting the product’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is recommended upon purchase.
Other Information on Potassium Titanate
1. Safety
Potassium titanate poses risks of skin and eye irritation, with potential systemic toxicity targeting specific organs and respiratory irritation upon single exposure. Hence, handling requires utmost caution.
Though no acute or chronic aquatic toxicity or fish toxicity has been proven, the disposal should be managed by specialized contractors. It is recognized as a non-hazardous substance by fire safety regulations and is not listed as a toxic substance.
Being non-combustible, it imposes minimal restrictions during firefighting. Firefighting measures should align with those for other hazardous materials.
2. Handling Methods
Ensure local exhaust ventilation or adequate ventilation in the workspace to prevent inhalation of vapors and dust. Protective gear, including respirators, safety glasses, masks, gloves, and depending on the task, protective clothing, boots, headgear, and arm covers, are recommended for workers.
3. Potassium Titanate Fiber
Potassium titanate fiber, known for its high strength, rigidity, and aspect ratio, is utilized in various applications such as reinforcement materials for plastics, friction modifiers for automobile brakes, and precision filters.
It is especially valued for its heat insulation, resistance, and chemical resilience, enhancing thermoplastics, plastic foams, and cement reinforcements, as well as insulators and heat-resistant materials.
Furthermore, crystalline titanate fiber, a derivative, exhibits ion adsorption properties and promising applications in wastewater treatment, radioactive waste management, and as a catalyst or filter medium.
4. Structure of Potassium Titanate Fiber
Structural analysis of potassium titanate fibers synthesized with n values of 1, 2, 4, 6, and 8 reveals distinct layered and tunnel structures for n=2 and 4, and n=6 and 8, respectively.
While both structures are synthesized as fibers, their chemical and physical properties significantly differ. Layered structure fibers are chemically active and allow for the synthesis of various derivatives due to the strong exchangeability of potassium ions. In contrast, tunnel-structured fibers showcase superior thermal insulation, heat resistance, and physicochemical properties.