Ilmenite

Ilmenite is a common mineral consisting of titanium and iron oxides, primarily used to produce titanium dioxide, a white pigment found in paints, plastics, paper, and sunscreen. It appears as dark gray to black crystals with a metallic luster. Ilmenite is valuable because it serves as the main source of titanium, a metal known for its strength, light weight, and corrosion resistance. Mined from beaches and rocks, ilmenite is processed to extract titanium dioxide and other titanium compounds, supporting various industrial and manufacturing needs globally.