Characteristic

 

Sodium metasilicate is the chemical substance with formula Na₂SiO₃, which is the main component of commercial sodium silicate solutions. It is a colorless crystalline hygroscopic and deliquescent solid, soluble in water (giving an alkaline solution), but not in alcohols.

Chemical formula:Na₂SiO₃

Molar mass:122.062 g·mol⁻¹

Appearance:White crystals

Density:2.61 g/cm³

Melting point:1,088 °C (1,990 °F; 1,361 K)

Solubility in water:22.2 g/100 ml (25 °C);160.6 g/100 ml (80 °C)

Solubility:insoluble in alcohol

Refractive index (nD):1.52

 

Application

 

Sodium metasilicate is used as a starting material for zeolites and silica catalysts. It acts as an adhesive and binder, corrosion inhibitor, penetrating sealant, coagulant in waste water treatment, fixative for hand dyeing with reactive dye and detergent auxiliaries. It is also used in boiler compounds, cleaners, bleaches, aluminum paint strippers and washing carbonated drinking bottles. It finds application in cements, drilling fluids, fireproofing wood, refractories and automobiles. Further, it serves as a surfactant, emulsifier, wetting agent, suspending agent, dispersing agent and anti-corrosive agent in boiler water.