Titanium isopropoxide

Titanium isopropoxide (CAS 546-68-9), commonly abbreviated as TTIP and also known as tetraisopropyl orthotitanate, is a reactive organotitanium compound used as a catalyst precursor. It functions as a sol-gel processing agent across specialty chemical manufacturing. It enables controlled deposition of titanium dioxide coatings and serves as a crosslinking agent in polymer systems.

In sol-gel and thin-film processes, TTIP is hydrolyzed to deposit TiO₂ layers on glass, metal, and plastic substrates for photocatalytic, anti-reflective, or barrier coating applications. Polymer manufacturers use it as a crosslinker for polyesters and alkyd resins, improving adhesion and film integrity in coatings and adhesives for industrial use.

In personal care and cosmetic formulations, it functions as a surface-modification agent for treating pigment particles, particularly titanium dioxide used in sunscreens and color cosmetics. Pharmaceutical and biotech applications include its use as a catalyst in stereoselective synthesis, notably in asymmetric epoxidation reactions for high-purity chemical production.

TTIP is supplied as a moisture-sensitive liquid, typically at 97% or higher purity. Technical and reagent grades are the most commonly available for industrial procurement. Packaging ranges from small laboratory quantities to bulk drums under inert atmosphere. Handling and storage requirements under dry, inert conditions are standard for this material.