TITANIUM (Ti, atomic number 22) is a lustrous, grey metallic element used principally to make lightweight, resistant alloys. It is one of the transitional elements of the periodic table and has many desirable properties, most notably its incredible strength and durability.

Titanium is immune to corrosive attacks by saltwater and marine atmosphere, and exhibits exceptional resistance to a broad range of corrosive gases, acids and alkalis. Immune to microbiologically influenced corrosion, Titanium is physiologically inert and hypoallergenic.

Titanium is virtually non-magnetic, as well, making it ideal for applications where electromagnetic interference must be minimized.

Titanium exhibits a high strength to weight ratio. Pure titanium is stronger than steel yet nearly 50% lighter. When added to various alloys, its hardness, toughness and tensile strength can be increased dramatically.

Titanium is always found in combination with other substances, and occurs as an oxide in ilmenite, rutile and sphene, and is present in titanates and in many iron ores. Titanium is present in the ash of coal, in plants, and in the human body. Titanium is ductile only when it is free of oxygen and nitrogen (air), melting at 1660°C (3020°F) and boiling at 3287°C (5949°F).

The complex process of converting titanium ore into metal has been commercially viable for a little more than 50 years. Since the commercial introduction of titanium, its use has expanded by an average of 8% per year and its popularity continues to grow.