Because of its high, abrasive nature, TiO2 can put traditional two-piece diaphragms under extreme stress, leading to costly leak points, failure and downtime.
The TiO2 industry is seeing favorable supply and demand conditions. Chinese producers, the usual industry disruptors, are facing more serious challenges than their multinational competitors.
The TiO2 industry is in a position never before experienced in its long history as it moves through the seasonally high coatings demand period in North America. Demand is returning beyond average GDP levels, particularly in China. In turn, price-sensitive customers are absorbing a huge increase in price.
The outlook is positive for most TiO2 producers for 2021. Increasing demand and the limited ability of Chinese producers to respond fairs well for global players. Multiple factors, including feedstock, Chinese chloride capabilities, and product quality all will impact the long-term future of the industry.
As the TiO2 market strengthens post-pan demic, TiO2 consumers in North America will continue to be faced with the dilemma of how best to find reductions in TiO2 costs.
