[Chemical Knowledge]：Properties, uses, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods, sodium metasilicate pentahydrate cas

Sodium metasilicate pentahydrate properties

Sodium metasilicate pentahydrate (Na2SiO3 · 5H2O), also known as sodium silicate pentahydrate, is a colorless or white crystal, hygroscopic, easily soluble in water, and alkaline reaction when dissolved. Its molecular formula is Na2SiO3 · 5H2O, the relative molecular mass is 188.22. Sodium metasilicate pentahydrate is stable at room temperature, but it is easy to decompose to generate sodium silicate and water at high temperature. Its aqueous solution is strongly alkaline, with a pH value of 11-13, which is irritating to the skin and mucous membranes.

Sodium metasilicate pentahydrate use

Sodium metasilicate pentahydrate is widely used in industry. As a common additive in the detergent industry, it can improve the washing effect, especially the removal effect of grease and dirt. In the paper industry, sodium metasilicate pentahydrate is used as a deinking agent and dispersant to help improve the quality of paper. It is also used as a fire retardant and cement retarder in building materials, helping to improve the durability and safety of building materials. In the water treatment process, sodium metasilicate pentahydrate can be used as a softener to prevent scale formation and improve water quality.

Upstream Feedstock Analysis

The raw materials for the production of sodium metasilicate pentahydrate mainly include soda ash (Na2CO3) and silica (SiO2). The market supply of soda ash is relatively stable and the price fluctuation is not large. Silica is often extracted by minerals, mainly from quartz sand, with abundant reserves and sufficient supply. These two raw materials react to form sodium metasilicate, which is then hydrated to obtain sodium metasilicate pentahydrate. The production process also requires a certain amount of water and energy, so the supply of water and energy will also affect its production costs.

Downstream products and market demand

The downstream products of sodium metasilicate pentahydrate are mainly concentrated in the detergent, paper, building materials and water treatment industries. In recent years, with the improvement of environmental awareness and the progress of industrial technology, the demand for efficient and environmentally friendly detergents is increasing. As an important component of sodium metasilicate pentahydrate, the market demand continues to grow. In the paper industry, the development of modern papermaking technology is also driving the demand for high quality chemicals. The rising demand for fireproof materials and high-performance concrete additives in the construction industry also provides a broad market space for sodium metasilicate pentahydrate. In terms of water treatment, with the shortage of water resources and the improvement of water quality requirements, the application prospect of sodium metasilicate pentahydrate in water treatment is also very promising.

Storage methods and precautions

Sodium metasilicate pentahydrate is hygroscopic, so special attention should be paid to moisture protection during storage. Under normal circumstances, it should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated warehouse to avoid contact with acids to prevent chemical reactions. Sodium metasilicate pentahydrate is easily soluble in water and will form an alkaline solution when it meets water, which is irritating to the skin and eyes. Therefore, protective gloves and goggles should be worn during operation to avoid direct contact. In the event of a leak, clean it quickly and flush the contaminated area with plenty of water.

Environmental Protection and Safety

Sodium metasilicate pentahydrate needs to pay attention to environmental protection and safety issues during use and storage. As a chemical, its waste treatment needs to comply with relevant regulations to avoid environmental pollution. In the production process, it is also necessary to take effective environmental protection measures to reduce waste water and waste gas emissions. In the process of production and use, the safety operation regulations shall be strictly observed to prevent accidents. For enterprises, strengthening staff training and improving safety awareness are important measures to ensure production safety and environmental protection.

future development trend

With the progress of science and technology and changes in market demand, the application field of sodium metasilicate pentahydrate will continue to expand. For example, in the field of new materials, sodium metasilicate pentahydrate is expected to be used to develop new composite materials and improve material properties. In terms of environmental protection, with the continuous innovation of water treatment technology, sodium metasilicate pentahydrate has a broad application prospect in sewage treatment. As people's attention to health and safety increases, the development of safer and more efficient sodium metasilicate pentahydrate products will become the future development direction.

Conclusion

As an important chemical product, sodium metasilicate pentahydrate has broad application prospects and market demand. Its production involves a stable supply of upstream raw materials and strong demand in the downstream market. Attention should be paid to safety and environmental protection during storage and use. In the future, with technological progress and market changes, the application field of sodium metasilicate pentahydrate will continue to expand, and the market prospect will be broad. For related enterprises, seizing this opportunity, constantly innovating and improving product quality will occupy a favorable position in the fierce market competition.