What is anodizing?

Titanium anodizing is a process in which a protective oxide layer is formed on the surface of titanium by electrolysis. The process uses an electric current to change the surface of titanium and create a range of colors.

Here is a general explanation of the titanium anodizing process:

1. Preparation: The titanium jewelry is thoroughly cleaned to remove oil, dirt and other contaminants. This ensures better adhesion of the oxide film during the anodizing process.
2. Anodizing setup: The titanium jewelry is placed in an electrolytic solution as an anode (positive electrode), while a cathode (negative electrode) is placed in the solution. The electrolytic solution contains chemicals such as sulfuric acid.
3. Electrolysis: When an electric current is passed through the setup, a reaction takes place between the titanium surface and the electrolytic solution. This results in the formation of an oxide film on the titanium surface.
4. Color formation: During the anodizing of titanium, a thin, porous oxide film is formed. By adjusting factors such as current, time and voltage, different colors can be produced. These colors are created by the interference effect of light scattered by the thin pores in the oxide film.

Anodizing titanium offers the possibility to obtain a wide range of colors, ranging from bronze, blue, purple, green to even rainbow-like effects. The exact colors and patterns obtained can vary depending on the specific parameters and techniques used during anodizing.

Titanium anodizing primarily has applications in the jewelry industry, where it is used to create colorful and attractive finishes on titanium jewelry, such as rings, earrings, and pendants. The process not only enhances the appearance of titanium jewelry, but also increases its resistance to corrosion and wear.