Synthetic Silica

Brief Overview:

Silica, commonly known as Silicon Dioxide, are found naturally in the form of quartz. It is one of the most complex and abundant families of materials and is also a major constituent of sand across the globe. Its application ranges across several categories, from structural materials to ingredients used in food industry.

Manufacturing Processes:

Production of Silica begins with the acidification of an alkaline silicate solution with a bench acid such as H2SO4. Both substances are added simultaneously with agitation to water where precipitation is done under alkaline conditions.

Na₂(SiO₂)₇ + H₂SO₄ + O → 7SiO₂ + Na₂SO₄ + H₂O

Na₂SiO₃ + H₂SO₄ → SiO₂ + Na₂SO₄ + H₂O

By adjusting several factors such as the degree of agitation, the addition rate of reactants and concentration, the properties of synthetic silica produced can vary. Synthetic Silica, in the form of a white precipitate, is subsequently obtained after it is filtered, washed and dried.

Cosmetic Industry: Used as a polishing, thickening and cleaning agent used in toothpaste, skin creams, deodorants and facial scrubs.

Detergent Industry: Production of detergents and dish-washing powders due to its emulsifying properties.

Food & Pharmaceutical Industry: Used as thickening, anti-caking agents to convert liquid into powdered, vice versa.

Other Applications: Production of glass for windows, drinking glasses and bottles. Also used in production for optical fibers that are predominantly being used in telecommunications today.