Piilosilikaattia

Piilosilikaattia, also known as cryptocrystalline silica, is a form of silica that is composed of microscopic crystals, too small to be seen with a light microscope. This distinguishes it from other forms of silica like quartz, which are made up of larger, visible crystals. Piilosilikaattia is found in a variety of geological formations and is often associated with sedimentary rocks. Its properties can vary depending on its specific structure and composition, but it generally exhibits hardness and a conchoidal fracture.

Common examples of rocks containing piilosilikaattia include chert, flint, jasper, and agate. These materials have been utilized by humans for millennia, particularly in the Stone Age, for the creation of tools and weapons due to their ability to be flaked into sharp edges. In modern applications, piilosilikaattia is used in the manufacturing of abrasives, as an aggregate in concrete, and in some industrial filtration processes. The term "piilosilikaattia" is a Finnish word, with "piilo" meaning hidden or concealed, and "silikaatti" referring to silicate.