Aerosil 200

Aerosil 200 is a fumed silica (synthetic amorphous silicon dioxide) produced by flame hydrolysis of silicon tetrachloride. It appears as a very fine, white, fluffy powder with high surface area and excellent thickening and anti-caking properties.

Description

Aerosil 200 Uses

Primary Uses 

Reinforcing Agent in Polymers & Elastomers

  • Improves mechanical strength and abrasion resistance in:
  • Silicone rubber (seals, gaskets, medical devices)
  • Epoxy resins (coatings, adhesives)
  • PVC, polyurethanes (cables, automotive parts)

Thickening & Anti-Settling Agent

  • Prevents sagging in:
  • Paints, coatings, inks (improves viscosity)
  • Cosmetics (lotions, creams, toothpaste)
  • Adhesives & sealants (enhances stability)

Free-Flow Agent for Powders

  • Prevents caking in:
  • Pharmaceutical tablets (improves powder flow)
  • Food powders (spices, instant drinks)
  • Industrial chemicals (pigments, detergents)

Matting Agent

  • Reduces gloss in:
  • Paints, varnishes (architectural/automotive finishes)
  • Plastics & films (packaging, synthetic leather)

Secondary Uses 

Battery & Energy Storage

  • Improves electrolyte stability in lithium-ion batteries.

Catalyst Support

  • High surface area (200 m²/g) for chemical catalysis.

3D Printing

  • Enhances powder flowability in SLS (Selective Laser Sintering).

Thermal Insulation

  • Used in aerogels and high-temperature insulation.

Defoaming Agent

  • Controls foam in industrial processes (e.g., wastewater treatment).

 

KEY ATTRIBUTES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

  • Chemical Name: Propan-2-one (IUPAC), Acetone (common)
  • CAS Number: 67-64-1
  • HS Code: 2914.11.00
  • Molecular Formula: C₃H₆O
  • Synonyms: Dimethyl ketone, 2-propanone

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

  • Physical State: Liquid
  • Color & Odor: Colorless, pungent sweetish odor
  • Boiling Point: 56°C | Melting Point: -95°C
  • Density: 0.791 g/cm³
  • Solubility: Miscible in water, ethanol, ether
  • pH Level: ~7 (neutral)
  • Vapor Pressure: 233 mmHg (25°C)
  • Flash Point: -20°C (highly flammable)
  • Autoignition Temperature: 465°C
  • Viscosity: 0.32 cP (25°C)

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

  • Hazard Class: Flammable Liquid (GHS Category 2), Eye Irritant
  • NFPA Ratings: Health (1), Flammability (3), Reactivity (0)
  • Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL (1000 ppm), ACGIH TLV (500 ppm)
  • Reactivity: Incompatible with strong oxidizers, acids

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

  • Storage Conditions: Cool, well-ventilated, away from ignition sources
  • Incompatible Materials: HNO₃, H₂O₂, halogens
  • Container Type: Plastic (HDPE) or metal (stainless steel)
  • Shelf Life: Indefinite if sealed properly
  • Special Handling: Use explosion-proof equipment, chemical gloves

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

  • Regulatory Status: EPA (non-HAP), REACH registered, DOT Class 3 (flammable)
  • Hazard Symbols: ⚠️ (Flammable), GHS02, GHS07
  • Transportation Restrictions: UN1090, Packing Group II
  • Waste Disposal: Incineration or RCRA-approved solvent recovery

6. Environmental & Health Impact

  • Ecotoxicity: LC50 (fish, 96h) = 4.3 g/L (low toxicity)
  • Persistence: Readily biodegradable (half-life < 5 days)
  • Carcinogenicity: Not classified (IARC Group 3, OSHA non-carcinogen)

 

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

1. Safety Precautions

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

  • Respiratory: NIOSH-approved N95 respirator (for dust)
  • Eye Protection: Tight-fitting safety goggles
  • Gloves: Nitrile or neoprene
  • Body: Long-sleeved clothing + lab coat

Handling & Storage:

  • Avoid dust generation (use closed systems where possible)
  • Ground equipment (static electricity hazard)
  • Store in sealed containers away from moisture
  • Keep away from strong oxidizers (e.g., peroxides)

Hygiene Practices:

  • No eating/drinking in handling areas
  • Wash hands/face after use
  • Provide emergency eyewash station

2. First Aid Measures

Inhalation (Dust):

  • Move to fresh air immediately
  • If breathing is difficult, seek medical attention

Eye Contact:

  • Rinse with water for 15+ minutes (hold eyelids open)
  • Seek medical help if irritation persists

Skin Contact:

  • Wash with soap and water
  • Apply moisturizer if dryness occurs

Ingestion:

  • Rinse mouth with water
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Do NOT induce vomiting
  • Seek medical advice

3. Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards:

  • Non-flammable but may form explosive dust clouds
  • Decomposes at >1000°C, releasing crystalline silica dust

Extinguishing Media:
✔ Water spray (best for dust suppression)
✔ CO₂
✔ Dry chemical powder

Firefighting Precautions:

  • Wear SCBA (self-contained breathing apparatus)
  • Avoid raising dust during firefighting
  • Cool containers with water spray

4. Spill & Disposal

Small Spills:

  • Wear dust mask + gloves
  • Dampen with water mist to suppress dust
  • Sweep up carefully

Large Spills:

  • Isolate area
  • Use industrial vacuum (explosion-proof)
  • Prevent entry into drains/waterways

Disposal:

  • Dispose as non-hazardous waste (unless contaminated)
  • Follow local silica dust regulations