(a) whether the Titanium Dioxide used for manufacturing aircraft are produced in the country;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) whether ISRO has engaged in any MoU with the Kerala Metals and Minerals Ltd. For the production of Titanium Sponge;
(d) if so, the details thereof;
(e) whether the Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory has developed any process for the production of Titanium Sponge; and
(f) if so, the details thereof?
MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI A.K. ANTONY)
(a) & (b): Titanium Dioxide is not, as such, used for manufacturing of aircrafts. However, Titanium Alloys are used for manufacturing of aircrafts. Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL), Hyderabad has developed technology for production of Titanium Sponge which is used for producing these Titanium Alloys.
(c) & (d): Yes, Sir. In fact, there is a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) among Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) of ISRO, Kerala Metals and Minerals Ltd (KMML), and DMRL for production of Titanium Sponge at KMML.
(e) & (f): Yes, Sir. DMRL has developed technology for production of Titanium Sponge of very high quality for production of Titanium Alloys, which are suitable for application in aircraft industries.