Silicate de Soude

Sodium silicate, also known as water glass or liquid glass, is a solution of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) and sodium oxide (Na₂O) dissolved in water. This inorganic compound typically comes in either liquid or solid form (powder or beads) and is used in a wide range of industrial applications due to its unique properties, such as its ability to act as a binder, detergent, and hardening agent.

Sodium Silicate Characteristics:

• Form: Liquid or solid (powder, beads).
• Appearance: Clear, viscous liquid or transparent crystalline solid.
• Solubility: Highly soluble in water.
• pH: Alkaline, usually above 12 in aqueous solutions.
• Stability: Stable at room temperature but may react with acids.
• Melting Point: 1080°C for solid sodium silicate.
• Density: Varies depending on the concentration.

Applications of Sodium Silicate:

1. Construction and Concrete Industry:

   • Used as a binder in the production of refractory bricks, cement, and concrete.
   • Applied for the consolidation and protection of construction materials, including natural stone and metal surfaces.

2. Water Treatment:

   • Used as a flocculant in wastewater treatment to remove impurities.
   • Employed in descaling and purification processes.

3. Industrial Cleaning:

   • Utilized in the manufacturing of detergents for cleaning metal, ceramic, and glass surfaces.
   • Featured in alkaline-based cleaning products.

4. Adhesives and Glues:

   • Applied in adhesives for paper, cardboard, textiles, and other materials due to its hardening properties.

5. Chemical Industry:

   • Used as a catalyst in various chemical reactions.
   • Employed in the production of chemicals such as silicones, paints, and varnishes.

6. Agriculture:

   • Used in some pesticide formulations for its cleaning and detergent properties.