Silikathaltiger

Silikathaltiger is a term used in German-language literature to describe substances that contain significant amounts of silicon dioxide (SiO2). It functions as an umbrella descriptor in geology, mineralogy, and materials science, rather than as a precise mineralogical classification.

Silikathaltige materials can be based on silica itself or on silicates. They include crystalline forms such as quartz, cristobalite, and tridymite, as well as amorphous forms like opal and various silica gels. In industrial contexts, silikathaltige materials encompass glass, ceramic bodies, cementitious matrices, and silica fillers or aggregates used to modify mechanical or thermal properties.

The properties of silikathaltige substances vary with form and composition. Crystalline silica typically exhibits high hardness and chemical inertness, while amorphous silica shows different optical and thermal behaviors. The thermal stability, expansion, and interaction with other components depend on the specific mineral form or composite.

Occurrence and applications are broad. Naturally, silikathaltige minerals occur widely as quartz and other silicates in rocks and soils. Artificial silikathaltige materials are manufactured for construction (glass, ceramics, cement), electronics (silicon dioxide in processing), filtration, catalysts supports, and various specialty applications in cosmetics and industrial chemistry.

Safety and environmental aspects focus on risks associated with respirable crystalline silica, which can cause lung diseases with prolonged exposure. Proper dust control, ventilation, and personal protective equipment are standard precautions. Environmental considerations also address mining impacts, processing emissions, and proper handling of silica-containing wastes.