Introduction
Ilmenite is a naturally occurring iron titanium oxide mineral which is black in color. With the chemical formula of FeTiO3, it is a weakly magnetic and chemically inert compound. FeTiO3 crystallizes in the trigonal system and its crystals are monoclinic or pseudorhombic. It forms lamellar masses and granular to massive aggregates. FeTiO3 is named after the village of Ilmenau in Germany where it was first recognized as a distinct material in the late 18th century.

Key Properties and Composition of Ilmenite

As mentioned earlier, FeTiO3 is a black iron titanium oxide mineral with the chemical formula FeTiO3. It consists of iron, titanium and oxygen. On average, FeTiO3 ore consists of 45-70% titanium dioxide and 6-10% iron oxide. Small amounts of other elements such as magnesium, manganese, chromium and vanadium may also be present in its composition. FeTiO3 has a Mohs hardness of 5-6.5 and specific gravity in the range of 4.4-5. It is weakly paramagnetic but strongly attracted by magnets due to its iron content. FeTiO3 usually forms lamellar or scaly crystalline aggregates rather than well-defined crystals.

Extraction and Uses of Ilmenite

FeTiO3 is commercially exploited as an ore of titanium and a source of iron. It is one of the most abundant minerals and has a widespread occurrence around the world. Australia, South Africa, India, Canada and Norway are some of the major producers and exporters of FeTiO3 ore. FeTiO3 is extracted through open cut mining methods from major deposits and placer deposits. It requires significant processing to isolate pure titanium dioxide and iron. This involves upgrading through magnetic and gravity separation, leaching, reduction roasting and chemical refining.

The primary use of FeTiO3 is in the manufacture of titanium dioxide pigment which finds applications in paper, paints, plastics, rubber and other materials. Titanium dioxide provides whiteness and opacity to these products. As a feedstock material, FeTiO3 meets nearly 50% of the world's titanium dioxide requirement. It also finds use as an opacifying agent in glasses and ceramics. Other applications of FeTiO3 include manufacturing of welding rods, titanium metal and chemical applications such as the production of titanium tetrachloride.

Potential Medical Uses of Ilmenite

Due to its composition containing iron and titanium, FeTiO3 has shown potential for a few medical uses and benefits. Some research studies have shown following indications -

- Iron content in FeTiO3 can help in treating anemia as a dietary iron supplement. However, proper processing would be required to isolate pure iron.

- Titanium present in FeTiO3 has applications in replacing bones and teeth. It is non-toxic and highly biocompatible element. Titanium implants are commonly used in orthopedic and dental procedures.

- Titanium dioxide nanoparticles extracted from FeTiO3 shows antibacterial properties against certain species of microbes including staphylococcus aureus and pseudomonas aeruginosa. This has applications as an antibacterial agent.

- Due to its inert and non-toxic nature, FeTiO3 is being explored as a safe carrier material for targeted drug delivery and controlled release preparations in nanomedicine. Further research is being carried out in this area.

- Preliminary research also indicates FeTiO3 may offer protective effects against certain types of cancers including breast, skin and prostate cancer due to its antioxidant properties. However, detailed studies are yet to be done.

Environmental Concerns of Ilmenite Mining

While FeTiO3 holds commercial and medicinal importance, its mining activities can cause notable environmental impact if not properly managed. Some concerns associated with large scale FeTiO3 mining include -

- Land degradation due to open pit mining methods and disposal of huge mine wastes. This leads to loss of top soil and destruction of habitat.

- Water pollution risks from process plants and waste dumps during heavy rains. Acid mine drainage can contaminate surface and groundwater.

- Air pollution occurs from activities like blasting, transport, dumping and dust generation. Gaseous emissions from processing plants also pollute atmosphere.

- Noise and vibration pollution arises from operation of heavy earth moving equipment, blasting etc. This disturbs local communities and wildlife.

- Mining in coastal areas can damage sensitive marine ecosystems due to sediment runoffs.

Sustainable and responsible mining practices adopting mitigation strategies are needed to balance FeTiO3 production with environmental protection. Minimizing ecological impacts, reclamation of mined lands, waste management and community engagement are important in this context.

Conclusion

In conclusion, FeTiO3 is an industrially important iron titanium oxide mineral with wide applications in pigment and chemical industries as well as emerging potentials in medical technologies. However, its mining requires prudent environmental management to occur sustainably. Ongoing research on FeTiO3 can help optimize extraction and unlock novel applications in advanced materials and healthcare.