Ilmenite definitions
| Word backwards | etinemli |
|---|---|
| Part of speech | Noun |
| Syllabic division | il-men-ite |
| Plural | The plural of the word "ilmenite" is "ilmenites." |
| Total letters | 8 |
| Vogais (2) | i,e |
| Consonants (4) | l,m,n,t |
Ilmenite is a titanium-iron oxide mineral with the idealized formula FeTiO3. It is a common accessory mineral found in igneous rocks, sediments, and metamorphic rocks. Ilmenite is known for its high titanium content, making it a valuable source of titanium dioxide, which is used in a variety of industrial applications.
Formation and Occurrence
Ilmenite typically forms as a primary mineral in mafic igneous rocks such as gabbro and basalt. It can also be found in metamorphic rocks that have undergone high temperatures and pressures. Ilmenite commonly occurs in beach sands and is often processed for its titanium content.
Properties
Ilmenite is typically black or dark brown in color, with a metallic luster. It has a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6 and a specific gravity of around 4.7 to 4.8. Ilmenite is magnetic and can be easily separated from other minerals using magnetic separation techniques.
Uses
Ilmenite is the primary ore of titanium and is used to produce titanium dioxide, which is then used in a wide range of industrial applications. Titanium dioxide is used as a white pigment in paints, plastics, paper, and cosmetics. It is also used in the production of titanium metal, which has a variety of aerospace and industrial applications.
Overall, ilmenite is an important mineral due to its high titanium content and its diverse range of industrial applications. Its abundance in nature and relatively simple extraction make it a valuable resource for various industries.
Ilmenite Examples
- Ilmenite is commonly used in the production of titanium dioxide pigment.
- The mineral ilmenite is often found in igneous rocks and sands.
- Ilmenite can be processed to extract titanium for various industrial applications.
- Researchers are studying the properties of ilmenite for potential aerospace applications.
- Ilmenite deposits are abundant in countries such as Australia, South Africa, and China.
- The price of ilmenite has fluctuated due to changes in supply and demand.
- Manufacturers use ilmenite as a raw material in the production of welding rods.
- Ilmenite is a key ingredient in the manufacture of refractory ceramic products.
- Geologists use various methods to identify and map ilmenite deposits around the world.
- Ilmenite is being explored as a potential source of renewable energy through photoelectrochemical cells.