What is Fumed Silica?
Fumed Silica, also known as pyrogenic silica, is an ultra-fine nanomaterial produced through a high-temperature hydrolysis process. Composed primarily of silicon dioxide (SiO₂), it is renowned for its exceptionally small particle size (7-40 nm) and extremely high specific surface area (50-400 m²/g). These unique physicochemical properties make it an indispensable functional additive in industrial and high-tech applications.
Production Process and Key Characteristics
Fumed silica is manufactured via the high-temperature hydrolysis of silicon tetrachloride (SiCl₄) in a hydrogen-oxygen flame. The resulting silica molecules aggregate to form a three-dimensional branched-chain structure, ultimately yielding a fluffy white powder. This process grants the material its critical properties:
1. **Nano-scale Particle Size**: Ultra-fine particles ensure uniform dispersion in matrices, enhancing material performance.
2. **High Specific Surface Area**: Delivers exceptional adsorption capacity and surface reactivity.
3. **Strong Thickening and Thixotropic Effects**: Improves rheological properties of liquid systems, preventing sedimentation or sagging.
4. **Chemical Inertness**: Resistant to high temperatures and corrosion, compatible with most materials.
5. **Insulation Properties**: High-purity silica offers excellent electrical insulation.
Versatile Applications
Fumed silica serves as a "silent partner" across multiple industries due to its multifunctionality:
1. **Coatings and Adhesives**
Adding small amounts to paints, resins, or sealants significantly enhances anti-settling performance, thixotropy, and mechanical strength while extending workability time.
2. **Cosmetics and Personal Care**
Used in creams, sunscreens, and toothpaste as a rheology control agent to stabilize texture, prevent ingredient separation, and deliver a silky feel.
3. **Polymer Composites**
Acts as a reinforcing filler in rubber, plastics, or silicones to improve tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and aging resistance, widely applied in tires, cables, and medical tubing.
4. **Electronics and New Energy**
Enhances thermal stability and insulation in lithium battery separator coatings or electronic encapsulants. In photovoltaic films, it aids light scattering to boost solar panel efficiency.
5. **Pharmaceuticals and Food**
Used as a tablet disintegrant or food anti-caking agent (e.g., powdered seasonings) to improve flowability, complying with FDA and other safety certifications.
Why Choose Our Fumed Silica?
- **Custom Solutions**: Offer tailored products with varying particle sizes and hydrophobic/hydrophilic modifications.
- **Rigorous Quality Control**: ISO 9001-certified production ensures batch consistency and low heavy metal content.
- **Technical Support**: Expert teams assist in formula optimization to enhance end-product performance.
- **Sustainable Production**: Eco-friendly processes reduce carbon emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Collaborate for Innovation, Drive the Future
Whether upgrading existing products or developing groundbreaking materials, fumed silica provides robust technical support. Our mission is to empower clients to lead their industries through innovative nanomaterial applications.
Contact Us Today to request samples or discuss custom solutions—discover how fumed silica can elevate your projects!