Abstract:High purity titanium ingots and billets can undergo a process called surface oxidation when exposed ...
High purity titanium ingots and billets can undergo a process called surface oxidation when exposed to humid environments. Surface oxidation is the reaction of the titanium metal with oxygen and water molecules in the air, which forms a layer of titanium oxide on the surface of the metal.
While this oxide layer can protect the metal from further corrosion, it can also reduce the metal's ductility and elongation, making it more brittle and prone to cracking. This can be a problem in applications where the titanium is subjected to high stress or strain.
To prevent surface oxidation and maintain the properties of high purity titanium ingots and billets in humid environments, they can be stored in a controlled environment with low humidity and minimal exposure to oxygen. Alternatively, they can be coated with a protective layer of material that can prevent oxidation while maintaining the metal's properties.