What Are The Risks Of Being Exposed To Potassium Titanate?

What Are The Risks Of Being Exposed To Potassium Titanate?

Only industry experts should handle potassium titanate when it is being manufactured, as the highly useful fibre can pose some risks if not dealt with correctly. 

The powerful compound is most commonly used in the automotive industry, as it can improve the strength of a friction material, as well as make it more heat and wear resistant. 

Therefore, car manufacturers use potassium titanate to improve the quality of their brakes, providing more security for drivers who do not want their brakes to fail, particularly under high temperatures. 

While it is extremely useful, it has to be handled carefully, as it can cause irritations if exposed to the skin. It is, therefore, essential that hands are thoroughly washed after handling the compound, as it could lead to dermatitis if not fully removed. 

The itchiness, rash or swelling can be treated with emollients or topical corticosteroids, or a doctor may have to prescribe oral corticosteroids if the dermatitis is particularly bad. 

If too much of the potassium titanate is inhaled by being around it for too long, this could also cause respiratory irritation. For this reason, it is important that people wear respiratory masks, especially when in confined areas, to avoid this. 

It is also essential that eye protection is worn at the same time, as overexposure could cause irritation to the eyes. The inert particles can make eyes itch and become red, which is why it is also essential to wear protective gloves when handling this. 

This reduces the chance of the particles making contact with eyes later in the end if hands are not thoroughly washed clean of the compound.