西媒：中国又开始"反人类”，曾经比黄金还贵的钛，中国拿它造锅

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the transformation of titanium from a strategic military material to a widely used industrial material in consumer products, highlighting China's advancements in titanium production and processing capabilities over the past decades [1][21]. Group 1: Titanium's Properties and Historical Context - Titanium is known for its high strength-to-weight ratio, with a strength close to high-strength steel but only 60% of its density, making it ideal for aerospace and military applications [3][9]. - The metal's high melting point of 1668°C allows it to maintain structural integrity in high-temperature environments, which is crucial for military aircraft and engines [3]. - Titanium's excellent corrosion resistance and biocompatibility make it suitable for various applications, including medical devices [5][7]. Group 2: Challenges in Titanium Production - The complexity of titanium extraction and processing has historically limited its use in mass markets, as it requires highly controlled conditions to prevent reactions with gases like oxygen and nitrogen [7][11]. - During the Cold War, titanium became a strategic resource due to its critical role in military technology, particularly in the development of the SR-71 reconnaissance aircraft [9][11]. Group 3: China's Rise in the Titanium Industry - China has emerged as a dominant force in the global titanium industry, overcoming previous limitations in processing technology and industrial capabilities [11][13]. - The country has developed a comprehensive industrial system for titanium production, achieving significant increases in sponge titanium output from a few thousand tons to approximately 200,000 tons annually by 2023, accounting for over 60% of global production [15][19]. - The shift from reliance on imported titanium products to domestic production has transformed China's industrial landscape, allowing for stable and continuous production at lower costs [15][19]. Group 4: Expansion into Consumer Markets - As production capabilities improved, titanium began to penetrate consumer markets, appearing in products like cookware, water bottles, and sports equipment, marking a significant shift from its traditional military and aerospace applications [17][19]. - The entry of titanium into the consumer market has diversified the industry's operational model, providing a stable demand base and enhancing the industry's resilience against economic fluctuations [19][21]. - This transition reflects a broader evolution of China's industrial system, showcasing its ability to transform raw materials into high-value products through integrated industrial capabilities [21].