A review on novel routes of synthesizing titanium dioxide-based nanostructure derived from ilmenite mineral

Nanostructure materials have received significant attention in recent years due to the unique properties and potential applications in various fields. Among these materials, titanium dioxide (TiO₂)-based materials have proven promising due to outstanding mechanical, electrical, and catalytic properties. Therefore, this research aimed to offer a comprehensive overview of synthesis and photocatalytic applications of TiO₂-based nanostructure materials derived from ilmenite mineral. Furthermore, the pretreatment process of ilmenite mineral using mechanical activation was explored. Various synthetic routes, such as liquid-based, residue-based, and direct ilmenite-based approaches, were also discussed and the advantages and limitations of the routes were explained. In addition, the research included a comparative analysis of the properties of TiO₂-based nanostructure materials derived from ilmenite mineral with the commercial in terms of crystallinity, composition, morphology, and selected optical properties. The article concluded with a discussion of the challenges and prospects for using nanostructure materials based on TiO₂ from ilmenite mineral. This research served as a valuable resource for explorers and scientists working on nanostructure materials and provides insight into the sustainable use of natural resources for synthesis of advanced TiO₂-based materials with shaped properties.