Anatase

Description

Anatase is a metastable polymorph of titanium dioxide (TiO2), characterized by a tetragonal crystal system. It represents one of four naturally occurring forms of TiO2, alongside brookite, rutile, and akaogiite. While rutile serves as the most abundant and thermodynamically stable phase, anatase typically forms under lower-temperature geological conditions and is found in subordinate quantities within metamorphic and igneous rock formations. In its pure state, the mineral appears white or colorless, though common trace impurities often result in a black appearance. Within the field of ceramics and materials science, thin coatings of titanium dioxide—often utilizing anatase—are applied to glass surfaces to impart photocatalytic functionality, specifically providing self-cleaning and antifogging capabilities when exposed to ultraviolet light.