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Potassium silicate, also known as potassium
metasilicate or potassium water glass, is a chemical compound with various
industrial and commercial applications.
1. Chemical Name: Potassium Silicate
2. Common Names: Potassium Metasilicate,
Potassium Water Glass
3. Chemical Formula: K2SiO3 | K2O⋅nSiO2
4. CAS Number: 1312-76-1
5. Molecular Weight: Approximately 154.28
g/mol
6. Appearance: Potassium silicate is typically
found as a colorless to yellowish or greenish solid or as a clear, viscous
liquid.
7. Physical Properties:
-
Density: The density of potassium silicate varies depending on its
concentration and form. For example, solid potassium silicate may have a
density ranging from 2.4 to 2.6 g/cm³, while liquid potassium silicate may have
a density ranging from 1.3 to 1.5 g/cm³.
-
Solubility: Potassium silicate is soluble in water, with the solubility
increasing with temperature. It forms alkaline solutions in water.
-
Melting Point: The melting point of potassium silicate is approximately
500-900°C (932-1652°F), depending on its composition and form.
8. Production:
-
Potassium silicate can be produced through the fusion of potassium carbonate
(potash) with silica (silicon dioxide) at high temperatures.
-
Alternatively, potassium silicate can be produced by dissolving potassium
hydroxide (caustic potash) in water and reacting it with silica.
9. Uses:
-
Industrial Coatings: Potassium silicate is used as a binder in the formulation
of water-based coatings, paints, and sealers for various substrates, including
concrete, masonry, and metal surfaces.
-
Fireproofing and Insulation: Potassium silicate coatings are applied to
structural materials such as wood, fabric, and paper to enhance fire resistance
and thermal insulation properties.
-
Soil Stabilization: Potassium silicate is used in soil stabilization and dust
control applications, particularly in unpaved roads and construction sites, to
improve soil strength and reduce erosion.
-
Adhesives and Binders: Potassium silicate is used as an adhesive and binder in
the production of refractory materials, ceramics, foundry molds, and abrasives.
-
Chemical Manufacturing: Potassium silicate is used as a precursor in the
production of other potassium silicate derivatives and specialty chemicals.
10. Safety:
-
Potassium silicate is generally considered safe for most industrial and
commercial applications when handled properly.
- It
is non-toxic, non-flammable, and non-corrosive under normal conditions.
-
However, exposure to concentrated solutions or dust may cause irritation to the
skin, eyes, and respiratory tract.
-
Proper handling procedures, including the use of gloves, goggles, and
protective clothing, should be followed to minimize the risk of exposure.
-
Spills should be promptly cleaned up using appropriate absorbent materials and
safety equipment.
If you need further information or have specific questions, feel free to ask!
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