Is titanium dioxide in paints and plastics safe?

Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) has been used safely for decades in paints, coatings and plastics across a wide range of everyday applications. The TiO₂ used in paints and plastics is pigmentary, non‑nano material, specifically designed to provide opacity and UV protection.

As well as being safe, in these products, TiO₂ is fully embedded within solid matrices or dispersed in a liquid, meaning that it is bound into the final material and does not cause any consumer exposure.  Available studies also indicate that later-stage activities, such as sanding of walls with paint containing TiO2, does not lead to exposure of TiO₂ particles.

Sources

• Characterization of Nanoparticle Release from Surface Coatings by the Simulation of a Sanding Process
• Comparison of dust release from epoxy and paint nanocomposites and conventional products during sanding and sawing