sodiumsilicate

Sodium silicate, also known as water glass, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Na₂SiO₃. It is a mixture of sodium oxide and silicon dioxide. It typically appears as a white or colorless solid, often in a glassy or crystalline form. Sodium silicate is highly soluble in water, forming alkaline solutions. It is produced by fusing sodium carbonate and silica sand at high temperatures, or by reacting sodium hydroxide with silica.

This versatile compound has a wide range of industrial applications. In detergents, it acts as a builder, buffering agent, and corrosion inhibitor. It is used in the manufacturing of paper and pulp as a de-inking agent and to strengthen cardboard. In construction, it can be used as a binder for cements and mortars, and as a sealant to prevent water penetration. Sodium silicate also finds use in foundries as a binder for sand molds, and in water treatment to prevent corrosion in pipes. Other applications include its use in textiles for bleaching and dyeing, and as an adhesive. It is also a component in some food products, though its use in this area is regulated.