Sodium Metasilicate Pentahydrate
Sodium Metasilicate Pentahydrate is a white crystalline solid containing five molecules of water of crystallization. It is widely used for its alkaline and detergent properties, making it effective in cleaning, water treatment, and as a corrosion inhibitor. The pentahydrate form is commonly preferred in detergent and industrial applications where controlled moisture content is beneficial. It dissolves readily in water, forming strongly alkaline solutions useful in various industries.
Uses
Primary Uses
- Detergents & Cleaning Agents
- Functions as a builder and alkalinity source in laundry detergents, dishwashing powders, and industrial cleaners.
- Used in heavy-duty degreasing formulations for industrial and automotive cleaning.
- Water Treatment
- Acts to soften water and adjust pH in municipal and industrial water treatment processes.
- Metal Treatment & Corrosion Control
- Employed as a corrosion inhibitor and metal surface cleaner in plating and finishing operations.
- Ceramics and Cement Industry
- Serves as a binder and fluxing agent in ceramics, cement, and refractory products.
- Pulp & Paper Industry
- Used in pulping and paper bleaching to remove lignin and impurities, improving paper quality.
Secondary UsesÂ
- Textile Industry
- Utilized in textile scouring and bleaching processes.
- Paints and Coatings
- Added to improve adhesion and durability of paints and coatings.
- Adhesives & Sealants
Used as an additive to improve bonding strength and stability.
 Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Sodium metasilicate pentahydrate
- Common/Trade Name: Sodium Metasilicate Pentahydrate
- CAS Number: 10213-79-3
- HS Code: 2839.39
- Synonyms: Sodium silicate pentahydrate, Water glass pentahydrate
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Solid (crystalline powder)
- Color & Odor: White, odorless
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water, forming alkaline solutions
- pH (1% solution): ~12-13
- Density: Approx. 1.6 g/cm³
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Corrosive (causes severe skin burns and eye damage)
- Toxicity: Harmful if swallowed; causes severe irritation and burns
- Exposure Limits: Observe occupational exposure limits for alkaline dust and solutions
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area, protected from moisture and incompatible substances such as acids
- Container Type: Typically supplied in sealed moisture-resistant bags or drums
- Shelf Life: Stable for up to 2 years if stored properly
- Handling Precautions: Use protective gloves, goggles, and dust masks; avoid dust generation
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with major international industrial chemical regulations (e.g., REACH, TSCA, OSHA)
- Registered under global chemical inventories such as EINECS and DSL
- Adheres to workplace safety and handling standards for corrosive substances
- Meets environmental and health safety standards for water treatment and detergent applications
- Approved for use in regulated industrial processes including cleaning, water treatment, and ceramics manufacturing
- May be subject to labeling and documentation under GHS and CLP for transportation and handling
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Inorganic; not biodegradable but does not bioaccumulate
- Ecotoxicity: Can be harmful to aquatic life if released in large amounts
Safety: Requires careful handling to prevent environmental contamination and human exposure
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Protective gloves, safety goggles, face shield, and dust respirator
- Handling Guidelines: Avoid inhalation of dust; use in well-ventilated areas
- Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly sealed and stored in a dry environment away from acids
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air and seek medical attention if irritation develops
- Skin Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water; seek medical attention if burns occur
- Eye Contact: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes; get urgent medical care
- Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth and seek immediate medical help
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable but may release toxic fumes on decomposition
- Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚ for surrounding fires
- Special Precautions: Wear full protective equipment and breathing apparatus
Hazardous Combustion Products: May emit silica fumes and sodium oxides
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