Titan – The divine metal
Historical excursion
Titanium or scientifically correct titanium was discovered in England in 1791 by the clergyman and amateur chemist William Gregor in so-called titanium iron and in 1795 by the German chemist Heinrich Klaproth in rutile ore. Klaproth gave the element its current name based on Greek mythology (Titans = first children of the gods of heaven and earth).
Happen
Pure titanium hardly occurs in the earth (approx. 0.57% of the earth's crust). Titanium is obtained from ilmenite or rutile. The manufacturing process used is very complex, which is reflected in the high price of titanium.
Mission
The metal of the gods is highly sought after. Titanium and titanium alloys are used in aircraft construction and space travel due to their low weight and temperature resistance. Because titanium does not react in the human body, it is also used, for example. B. used for hip joints and other implants. However, titanium is also used in expensive jewelry, flexible glasses and various everyday products.
Researchers from all over the world are working to further unlock the innovative potential of the light metal for the general public. Thanks to the outstanding positive properties (see below) such as corrosion and temperature resistance, low density and high strength, there are hardly any limits to innovative applications today.
Characteristics and properties
Titanium has the appearance of stainless steel. It is a hard yet light metal. Titanium is as hard as steel and twice as hard as aluminum. But it is about 45% lighter than steel and 60% heavier than aluminum. Its melting temperature (1,660 °C) is higher than that of steel (up to approx. 1,500 °C, depending on the type of steel).
When titanium comes into contact with oxygen from air or water, it immediately forms an extremely durable oxidic protective layer, which makes this special metal biocompatible and extremely corrosion-resistant.
These outstanding properties of the “divine metal”, in particular its lightness, durability and body compatibility, benefit our range of outdoor equipment.
