PPG Industries has begun using chloride-grade titanium dioxide (TiO₂) produced by China’s Henan Billions Chemicals. The US-based producer is using the TiO₂ to produce standard grades of its coatings products.

Under an agreement made in 2012, PPG licensed certain chloride-based technologies to Henan Billions for use on a global basis. At the same time, PPG also signed a long-term TiO₂ purchase agreement with the company.

Henan Billions can produce 100,000 t/y of chloride TiO₂ at its plant in Henan province, with the capability to expand. PPG said it has supported the start-up of Henan Billions’ new plant with quality and process improvements, analytical testing support and product evaluations.

Michael McGarry, PPG’s president and CEO, said the partnership with Henan Billions illustrated its commitment to securing the high-quality supplies of TiO₂ needed to support its business growth.

Henan Billions is based in Jiaozuo City and had sales of about $350 million in 2014.