Silikaalkoksideja
Silikaalkoksideja, also known as silica fume, is a byproduct of the silicon and ferrosilicon industry. It is a very fine powder consisting of amorphous (non-crystalline) silica. Silica fume is produced as a result of the reduction of high-purity quartz with coal and coke in electric arc furnaces. The primary use of silica fume is as a pozzolanic material in concrete, where it reacts with calcium hydroxide to form additional cementitious compounds, thereby improving the strength and durability of the concrete. Due to its high silica content and fine particle size, silica fume can significantly enhance the mechanical properties of concrete, including compressive strength, tensile strength, and flexural strength. It also improves the resistance of concrete to chemical attacks, such as sulfate and chloride ions, and enhances its resistance to freeze-thaw cycles. Silica fume is typically used in concrete applications where high performance and durability are required, such as in the construction of bridges, tunnels, and other infrastructure projects. The use of silica fume in concrete can also lead to a reduction in the overall cost of the project due to its ability to replace a portion of the cement in the mix. However, the use of silica fume requires careful handling and storage due to its potential health hazards, including respiratory irritation and lung disease. Proper safety measures, such as the use of personal protective equipment and ventilation, should be implemented when handling silica fume.