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Silica(White Carbon Black)

Fumed Silicas Introduction

Silico® fumed silica is widely used in adhesives, sealants, silicone elastomers, coatings, composites, cosmetics, and fire extinguishers. It offers excellent rheology control (thickening, thixotropy, anti-sag) and reinforcement.

Hydrophilic fumed silica, made by hydrolyzing chlorosilanes in an oxyhydrogen flame, is composed of high-purity amorphous silicon dioxide. It is water-wettable and dispersible in water.

Hydrophobic fumed silica is created by treating hydrophilic silica with silanes or silicone fluids such as hexamethyldisilazane or polydimethylsiloxane. It features strong water-repellent properties and is not dispersible in water.

Hydrophilic Fumed Silica

Hydrophilic Fumed Silica

Silico® hydrophilic fumed silica is a high-purity, amorphous silicon dioxide made by hydrolyzing chlorosilanes. It is water-dispersible, with excellent heat resistance, chemical stability, and thixotropic properties. Widely used in adhesives, elastomers, coatings, cosmetics, and more, it improves rheology, strength, and durability. Hydrophobic grades thicken non-polar solvents effectively.

Hydrophobic Fumed Silica

Hydrophobic Fumed Silica

Silico® hydrophobic fumed silica is produced by chemically treating hydrophilic silica with silanes or silicone oils. It offers excellent water repellency and is not water-dispersible. Widely used in silicones, adhesives, sealants, coatings, inks, cosmetics, and composites, it provides thixotropy, anti-sag, and reinforcement. Ideal for moisture-sensitive formulas and pigment stabilization.

Applications of Fumed Silicas

Fumed silica, an ultrafine form of silicon dioxide, is used across various industries due to its high surface area and unique properties.

1. Paints and Coatings

Fumed silica improves viscosity, prevents pigment settling, and enhances scratch resistance in paints and coatings.

2. Adhesives and Sealants

It adjusts viscosity and prevents sagging, while also improving the strength and durability of adhesives and sealants.

3. Cosmetics

Fumed silica enhances texture, provides a matte finish, and ensures even distribution of ingredients in cosmetics.

4. Pharmaceuticals

It helps improve powder flow in tablets and extends the shelf life of pharmaceutical products by absorbing moisture.

5. Food Industry

In food products, fumed silica acts as an anti-caking agent, preventing clumping and ensuring free-flowing powders.

6. Construction Materials

It enhances strength, durability, and workability in construction materials like concrete and mortar.

7. High-Temperature Applications

Fumed silica is used in high-temperature insulation materials, offering excellent thermal resistance in industrial and aerospace settings.

About Fumed Silicas

Chemical Structure

Chemical Structure

Fumed silica (SiO2) consists of fine, amorphous particles with a high surface area. It has a three-dimensional network structure, where silicon atoms are bonded to oxygen atoms. The particles are primarily spherical, forming aggregates that create a highly porous structure.

Physical Properties

Physical Properties

Fumed silica is a white, odorless, amorphous powder with a low bulk density. It has a high surface area (100-400 m²/g), low refractive index, and is highly hydrophilic. Its particle size ranges from 7 to 40 nm, and it exhibits excellent thermal stability and resistance to chemical attack.

About Fumed Silicas FAQs

1. What are the main applications of fumed silica?

Fumed silica is widely used as a thickening agent, anti-settling agent, and reinforcing filler in industries like paints, coatings, adhesives, sealants, and inks. It is also used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food products, and elastomers.

2. Is fumed silica safe?

Fumed silica is considered safe for most industrial uses. It is non-carcinogenic, but inhalation of fine dust can irritate the respiratory system. Proper safety measures should be followed to minimize exposure.

3. How is fumed silica produced?

Fumed silica is produced through flame hydrolysis, where silicon tetrachloride is reacted with hydrogen and oxygen at high temperatures, creating fine silica particles.

4. What are the physical properties of fumed silica?

Fumed silica is a white, odorless, amorphous powder with low bulk density. It has a surface area of 100-400 m²/g and a particle size of 7-40 nm, offering high thermal stability and resistance to chemical attack.

5. What health effects can fumed silica have?

Fumed silica is not classified as carcinogenic, but prolonged inhalation of its dust may cause respiratory issues. Using appropriate protective equipment is essential to minimize risk.

Packaging Specifications

Packaging Specifications

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How to Choose Fumed Silica?

  • Surface Chemistry

    • Hydrophilic: Best for water-based applications like paints.

    • Hydrophobic: Ideal for solvent-based systems, offering better dispersion and moisture resistance.

  • Particle Size & Surface Area

    • Smaller particles: Higher surface area, increases thickening and reinforcement.

    • Larger particles: Lower viscosity, enhances flow properties.

  • Application Type

    • Coatings: Choose based on resin type and viscosity needs.

    • Adhesives & Sealants: Opt for hydrophobic grades for sag resistance.

    • Cosmetics: Select grades that improve texture and dispersion.

  • Dispersion Quality

    • Ensure uniform dispersion for consistent performance.

  • Cost & Availability

    • Balance performance with budget and choose reliable suppliers.

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