silicofluoric

Silicofluoride refers to a salt or ester of silicofluoridic acid, also known as fluosilicic acid. The general formula for silicofluoride salts is M2SiF6, where M represents a metal cation. Fluosilicic acid itself is a dibasic acid with the formula H2SiF6. It is typically encountered as an aqueous solution, as the pure acid is unstable.

Fluosilicic acid is produced industrially as a byproduct of phosphate fertilizer production. It is also found naturally in some mineral springs and volcanic gases. Silicofluorides have various industrial applications. For instance, sodium silicofluoride is used as a fluoridating agent in public water supplies to help prevent tooth decay. It is also employed in the glass and enamel industries, as well as in the production of insecticides and rodenticides. Ammonium silicofluoride can be used as a mothproofing agent for textiles and as a wood preservative. Barium silicofluoride has applications as an insecticide.

Exposure to silicofluorides can pose health risks. Fluosilicic acid and many silicofluoride salts are corrosive and can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Ingestion can lead to gastrointestinal distress. Long-term or excessive exposure to fluoride, which is released from silicofluorides, is associated with dental and skeletal fluorosis. Due to these potential hazards, proper handling procedures and protective measures are necessary when working with these compounds.