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Sodium silicate, commonly known as water glass or liquid glass, is a compound containing sodium oxide (Na₂O) and silica (SiO₂). It is typically represented by the formula Na2SiO3text{Na}_2text{SiO}_3Na2​SiO3​, but it can vary, forming a range of compositions depending on the ratio of sodium oxide to silica.

Properties

• Physical State: It is usually found in a glassy, crystalline solid form or as a thick, syrupy liquid.
• Appearance: Colorless to light brown.
• Solubility: Highly soluble in water, forming a viscous solution.
• pH: Alkaline, typically around 11-12.

Production

Sodium silicate is produced by fusing sodium carbonate (soda ash) and silica sand at high temperatures. The general reaction is: Na2CO3+SiO2→Na2SiO3+CO2text{Na}_2text{CO}_3 + text{SiO}_2 rightarrow text{Na}_2text{SiO}_3 + text{CO}_2Na2​CO3​+SiO2​→Na2​SiO3​+CO2​