Sodium Alumina Silicate
Sodium Alumina Silicate is an inorganic compound consisting of sodium, aluminum, and silicon oxides. It is typically found as a white, amorphous powder with excellent adsorption and ion-exchange properties. Commonly used as a detergent builder, water softener, and desiccant, sodium alumina silicate improves cleaning efficiency, controls water hardness, and aids moisture absorption. Its thermal stability and chemical inertness make it valuable across detergent manufacturing, water treatment, and various industrial processes.
Uses
Primary Uses
Detergents and Cleaning Products
- Acts as a builder in laundry detergents to soften water by binding calcium and magnesium ions.
- Enhances cleaning efficiency by improving surfactant performance.
- Used in automatic dishwasher powders to prevent scale formation and enhance cleaning.
Water Treatment
- Utilized in water softening systems to remove hardness ions.
- Employed in industrial wastewater treatment for ion exchange and removal of heavy metals.
Desiccants and Moisture Absorption
- Used as a desiccant in packaging to control moisture and prevent product degradation.
Construction Industry
- Added as a filler or functional additive in cement and concrete formulations to improve durability and reduce porosity.
Secondary Uses
Catalyst Support
- Used as a support material in heterogeneous catalysis due to its thermal stability and surface properties.
Ceramics and Glass Manufacturing
- Serves as a raw material or additive to modify the properties of ceramic and glass products.
Agriculture
Occasionally used as a carrier or additive in fertilizers and soil conditioners.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Sodium aluminosilicate
- Common/Trade Name: Sodium Alumina Silicate
- CAS Number: 1344-00-9 (varies by specific formulation)
- HS Code: 3824.90.99
- Synonyms: Zeolite, synthetic zeolite, soda aluminosilicate
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Powder
- Color & Odor: White or off-white; odorless
- Solubility: Insoluble in water
- Density: Approx. 2.2 – 2.5 g/cm³
- Thermal Stability: Stable up to high temperatures (>1000°C)
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous; may cause irritation if inhaled as dust
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; non-corrosive
- Exposure Limits: Avoid inhalation of dust; use appropriate ventilation
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a dry, cool, well-ventilated area
- Container Type: Bags or bulk containers sealed to prevent moisture uptake
- Shelf Life: Stable if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Use dust mask and gloves; avoid dust generation
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with regulations for detergent and water treatment additives
- Meets environmental and safety standards for industrial minerals
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Inorganic mineral; does not biodegrade but is environmentally inert
- Ecotoxicity: Low; non-toxic to aquatic life at typical use concentrations
Bioaccumulation: Not significant
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Dust mask, gloves, and eye protection recommended
- Handling Guidelines: Minimize dust generation; work in 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 breathing difficulties occur
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical help if discomfort occurs
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable and non-combustible
- Extinguishing Media: Use extinguishing agents suitable for surrounding fire
- Special Precautions: Wear protective equipment to avoid dust inhalation
- Hazardous Combustion Products: None expected