Silicon Dioxide

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Silicon Dioxide (SiO₂), commonly known as silica, is a naturally occurring inorganic compound found abundantly in the Earth’s crust. In its refined, powdered form, it is used as an anti-caking agent, filler, absorbent, and thickener across a wide range of industries. It is odorless, tasteless, chemically inert, and stable under normal conditions. Packaged in 10kg units, silicon dioxide is highly versatile and widely accepted for use in food, pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and industrial applications.

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Category: Fillers and Reinforcements Tags: E551 Anti-Caking Agent, Pharmaceutical excipient, Silica Powder, Silicon Dioxide, Synthetic Amorphous Silica

Description

Table of Contents

Silicon Dioxide

Primary Uses

Food & Beverage Industry

Acts as an anti-caking agent in powdered foods such as spices, coffee creamers, and drink mixes.
Prevents clumping and improves flow properties of dry food products.
Used in beer and wine clarification processes.
Serves as a food additive (E551) in baking powder and salt.

Pharmaceuticals

Used as a glidant in tablet and capsule manufacturing to improve powder flow.
Acts as a filler and disintegrant in oral solid dosage forms.
Included in topical formulations for its absorbent and thickening properties.

Cosmetics & Personal Care

Used in lotions, creams, and powders for oil absorption and texture enhancement.
Provides a smooth, silky feel in skincare and makeup products.
Functions as a thickening agent in toothpaste and gels.

Industrial Applications

Used as a reinforcing filler in rubber and plastics to enhance strength and durability.
Functions as a polishing agent in the production of silicon wafers and precision optics.
Used in coatings and paints to improve matting and viscosity control.
Functions as an insulating material in electrical and thermal applications.

Construction & Building Materials

Included in cement and concrete formulations to improve strength and resistance.
Used in tile adhesives, grouts, and sealants for improved rheology and stability.

Secondary Uses

Laboratory & Research

Used as a stationary phase in chromatography and filtration media.
Acts as a reagent and substrate in chemical reactions.

Agriculture

Added to animal feed as an anti-caking agent and flow enhancer.
Included in fertilizers to improve handling and prevent moisture absorption.

Electronics

Used in semiconductor fabrication as a dielectric and substrate material.
Found in various components for insulation and thermal management.

Packaging

Used in moisture-absorbing sachets to maintain product integrity during storage and transport. (In amorphous silica gel form)

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Silicon dioxide
Common/Trade Name: Silicon Dioxide
CAS Number: 7631-86-9
HS Code: 2811.22.00
Synonyms: Silica, silica powder, SiO₂

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Fine powder or granules
Color & Odor: White; odorless
Particle Size: Typically <50 µm (varies by grade)
Density: 2.2 – 2.7 g/cm³
Melting Point: ~1,710°C
Solubility: Insoluble in water and organic solvents
pH (10% slurry): ~6–8

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous in amorphous form
Toxicity: Low; avoid inhaling fine dust
Exposure Limits: Follow OSHA and ACGIH guidelines (especially for crystalline silica variants)

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in a dry, cool, well-ventilated area away from moisture
Container Type: 10kg sealed bags, drums, or pails
Shelf Life: Indefinite if kept dry and uncontaminated
Handling Precautions: Use dust control methods; wear respiratory protection if airborne dust is present

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Approved as a food additive (E551) by FDA, EFSA, and other regulatory bodies
Complies with USP/NF, FCC, and food/pharma-grade specifications when applicable
REACH and RoHS compliant
Meets GMP and HACCP standards when used in food and pharma industries
Not classified as hazardous unless in crystalline form (which is regulated for inhalation risk)

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Biodegradability: Inert and non-biodegradable
Ecotoxicity: Very low; considered environmentally safe in amorphous form
Bioaccumulation: Not significant
Environmental Impact: Minimal under controlled disposal; avoid inhaling dust

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE Required: Dust mask or respirator, gloves, goggles
Handling Guidelines: Avoid generating dust; use in well-ventilated areas
Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and stored in a dry environment

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if respiratory irritation occurs
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; no significant hazards
Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water; consult a doctor if irritation persists
Ingestion: Rinse mouth; non-toxic in small amounts; seek medical attention if discomfort occurs

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Non-flammable and non-combustible
Extinguishing Media: Use appropriate media for surrounding fire
Special Precautions: Use protective gear; silica is inert but may carry residues
Hazardous Combustion Products: None