Titanium was first discovered in 1791 by British chemist Reverend William Gregor, and was originally named Gregorite after its founder. In 1793 it was once again discovered —independently—by German chemist M.H. Klaproth.

He named it Titanium after the Titans of Greek Mythology: “the incarnation of natural strength.” The element was successfully isolated in 1910. Titanium is the 22nd element on the periodic table. It is primarily found in the minerals Rutile and Llmenite, which make up to 24% of the earth's crust—making Titanium the 9th most abundant element on Earth. It only occurs in nature in chemical combinations; the most common of which are oxygen and iron.

The atomic of Titanium is 47.867amu. It is a low-density element (4510 kg/m3); approximately 60% less dense than steel (7850 kg/m3). Titanium contains no iron, making it a non-ferrous, non-magnetic substance. Titanium transfers heat well, with a higher melting point than steel. (Titanium melting point: 1993 K (3020 degrees F and 1660 °C). Steel melting point: 1923 K (3000 degrees F and 1650 °C). Titanium has the ability to passivate; therefore, it exhibits high levels of corrosion resistance to most mineral acids and chlorides.

Once primarily used by the aerospace industry, Titanium and Titanium alloys are being used increasingly in medical and other industries due to their coveted properties: non-magnetic, low-density, non-corrosive and very attractive strength to weight ratios. Titanium is also nontoxic and biologically compatible with human tissue and bone, making it useful for artificial hip and knee replacement, heart valves, spinal and Maxillofacial and other implants.