Titanium coated asbestos fiber

Abstract

The invention relates to a chrysotile asbestos fiber substantially coated on its exterior surface with hydrated titanium dioxide, the titanium dioxide content being from 0.5 to 35% by weight, part of the titanium dioxide being chemically bonded to the asbestos fiber and the remaining titanium dioxide being retained by electrostatic bond, said modified fiber having an Mg:Si ratio of from less than 3:2 to 2:2 when calculated on an atomic number ratio, a Ti:Si ratio of from more than 0:2 to less than 1:2 and said modified fiber being also characterized by an infrared spectrum wherein the relative peaks at 1082, 1025 and 957 cm.sup.-1 have been substantially altered in their intensity and as shown in curves C and D of FIG. 1 , said fiber resisting leaching of the Mg ions by strong acids 3 to 6 times better than natural asbestos fibers and resisting leaching of SiO.sub.2 groups in strong alkali media 1.5 to 3 times better than unmodified chrysotile fibers. The novel titanated fibers are useful in the manufacture of diaphragm for separating the electrode compartments of electrolytic cells.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.