Gloss is a surface-geometry property: a glossy film reflects light in one direction, a matte film scatters it. Titanium dioxide does not create gloss on its own, but the grade you choose strongly influences whether you can reach — and hold — the finish you want.
How TiO₂ affects gloss
- Particle-size distribution
- A narrow distribution leaves a smoother film surface. This is why chloride-process grades are often specified for high-gloss systems.
- Dispersion quality
- Agglomerates protrude through the film and scatter light, killing gloss and distinctness of image.
- Oil absorption
- Lower oil absorption leaves more binder available at the surface, which supports gloss at a given pigment loading.
- Surface treatment
- Heavy inorganic coatings improve durability but can reduce achievable gloss. High-gloss grades balance the two.
Formulating for high gloss
- Keep pigment volume concentration well below the critical PVC.
- Choose a tightly controlled, easily dispersed rutile grade.
- Give the mill enough time and energy — under-dispersion is the usual culprit.
- Watch flow and levelling additives as much as the pigment.
Formulating for matte and satin
- Gloss reduction comes mainly from extenders and matting agents, not from the TiO₂.
- Use TiO₂ for opacity and whiteness; a cost-efficient sulfate grade is often ideal.
- Check burnish and scrub resistance, which suffer as PVC rises.
Gloss retention outdoors
Initial gloss and retained gloss are different things. Outdoors, only a weathering-grade rutile pigment with a durable inorganic coating will hold gloss over years of exposure — see our guide to interior vs exterior grades.
Need a grade for a high-gloss or matte system? Send us an enquiry or browse the grade catalogue.