Titanium Dioxide

Rutile TiO₂ can produce characteristic crystalline, streaked, or variegated glaze effects due to its interaction with other glaze fluxes at high temperatures. These rutile effects are prized in artisan and decorative ceramics for their unique visual character and depth.

TiO₂ is typically used at 3–10% by weight in ceramic glazes, depending on the required opacity level and glaze chemistry. Lower loadings (3–5%) are used for enhancing brightness, while higher loadings (8–10%) are used in fully opaque white glaze systems.

TiO₂ itself has a high melting point, but it can participate in eutectic glass formations with fluxes in the glaze system, potentially influencing the maturing temperature and viscosity of the melt. The effect depends on the TiO₂ loading and overall glaze chemistry.

Yes. TiO₂, particularly anatase phase, can yellow in high-temperature oxidation or reduction atmospheres when combined with certain fluxes or colouring oxides. This is more common in rutile-rich glazes. Selection of the appropriate TiO₂ grade and careful glaze chemistry design minimises yellowing risk.

Yes. TiO₂ is used in engobe formulations to enhance the whiteness and opacity of the engobe layer, providing a bright base for decorative glaze application. Its high opacity allows thinner engobe coatings to effectively mask the tile body colour.