Sodium Silicate, also known as water glass, is a chemical compound composed of sodium oxide and silicon dioxide. It is a colorless, transparent, and non-flammable compound that is soluble in water. It is available in various forms, including liquid solutions and solid powders.
Sodium silicate has many uses, including:
- Adhesives: Used in the production of cardboard boxes and other paper-based products.
- Detergent Builder: Is employed as a detergent builder or water softener in laundry detergents, automatic dishwashing detergents, and industrial cleaning products.
- Concrete and Cement Additive: Used as an additive in concrete and cement formulations to improve their performance and properties.
- Fire protection: Used as a fire retardant additive in various materials, including textiles, fabrics, wood, and building materials.
- Water treatment: Used as a coagulant and flocculant to remove impurities from water.
- Corrosion Inhibitor: Is employed as a corrosion inhibitor and rust converter in metal surface treatment applications.