fumed silica

About fumed silica

Fumed silica is a highpurity, nanostructured form of amorphous silicon dioxide used as a multifunctional performance additive in liquid and powder formulations. It is produced by flame hydrolysis, giving extremely fine primary particles with very high specific surface area, which provide strong thickening, thixotropy, antisettling and freeflow properties even at low dosages.

Product description

• Chemical name: Fumed (pyrogenic) silica, amorphous SiO

• Form: Very light, white, fluffy powder with primary particle size typically 540 nm and BET surface area around 50400 m/g depending on grade.

• Key functions: Rheology modifier, thixotropic agent, antisag/antisettling agent, reinforcing filler and flow/anticaking aid in many systems.

Main uses / applications

• Coatings, paints and inks  Controls viscosity, prevents pigment settling, improves antisag and scratch resistance.

• Adhesives & sealants  Provides thixotropy and nonslump behavior, improving bead shape and application control.

• Silicones, RTVs and elastomers  Acts as a reinforcing filler to increase tensile strength, tear resistance and hardness.

• Plastics, composites and gelcoats  Improves thickening, fiber wetout and surface finish; helps prevent settling and exudation.

• Pharma, cosmetics and personal care (selected grades)  Used as a glidant, anticaking agent and viscosity modifier in powders, creams and gels.

• Powder flow & anticaking  Added at low levels to hygroscopic or fine powders to improve freeflow and reduce lump formation