Sodium Silicate

Sodium silicate, also known as water glass, is a versatile chemical compound with numerous industrial and commercial applications.

 1. Chemical Name: Sodium Silicate

2. Common Names: Water Glass

3. Chemical Formula: Na2SiO3 (anhydrous); Na2SiO3 · xH2O (hydrated forms)

4. CAS Number: 1344-09-8

5. Molecular Weight: Approximately 122.06 g/mol (anhydrous)

6. Appearance: Sodium silicate is typically found as a clear, colorless to slightly yellowish liquid or as a white to gray solid, depending on its concentration and hydration state.

 7. Concentration: Sodium silicate solutions can vary widely in concentration, with common concentrations ranging from about 35% to 50% SiO2 (silica) by weight.

 8. Physical Properties:

   - Density: The density of sodium silicate solutions varies depending on their concentration and temperature, typically ranging from 1.35 to 1.60 g/cm³.

   - Solubility: Sodium silicate is soluble in water, with the solubility increasing with temperature. It forms alkaline solutions in water.

   - Melting Point: The melting point of sodium silicate depends on its composition and concentration, typically ranging from 1089°C to over 1200°C.

 9. Production:

   - Sodium silicate is commonly produced through the fusion of sodium carbonate (soda ash) and silica (sand) in a furnace at high temperatures.

   - The resulting sodium silicate glass is then dissolved in water to form sodium silicate solutions of various concentrations.

 10. Uses:

    - Adhesives and Binders: Sodium silicate is used as an adhesive and binder in the production of refractory materials, ceramics, foundry molds, and abrasives.

    - Construction Materials: Sodium silicate is used in the manufacture of high-temperature-resistant materials such as fire-resistant coatings, cements, and concrete sealers.

    - Detergents and Soaps: Sodium silicate is used as a corrosion inhibitor, alkaline builder, and binding agent in detergents and soaps.

    - Water Treatment: Sodium silicate is used in water treatment processes for corrosion inhibition, scale prevention, and stabilization of heavy metals.

    - Paper and Pulp Industry: Sodium silicate is used as a sizing agent, retention aid, and coating binder in paper and pulp production to improve strength and printability.

    - Textile Industry: Sodium silicate is used in textile processing, particularly in dyeing, printing, and finishing operations.

 11. Safety:

    - Sodium silicate is generally considered safe for most industrial and commercial applications when handled properly.

    - It is non-toxic and non-flammable, but prolonged exposure to concentrated solutions or dust may cause skin and eye irritation.

    - Proper handling procedures, including the use of gloves, goggles, and protective clothing, should be followed when working with sodium silicate.

    - Spills should be promptly cleaned up using appropriate absorbent materials and safety equipment, and diluted with water to reduce concentration.

 This detailed overview provides comprehensive information about sodium silicate, including its chemical properties, production methods, uses, and safety considerations.

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