Silicotungstic acid

Silicotungstic acid (CAS 12027-38-2), also known as 12-tungstosilicic acid, is a heteropolyacid used industrially as a strong acid catalyst and analytical reagent. Its combination of high proton activity and thermal stability makes it a practical choice for acid-catalyzed synthesis and precipitation-based analytical workflows.

In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it functions as a precipitating agent for alkaloid identification and quantification in quality control testing processes. Catalyst applications include acid-catalyzed esterification, alkylation, and condensation reactions where a recoverable solid acid is preferred over mineral acids.

Research and fine chemical producers use it as a catalyst precursor for supported heteropolyacid systems on silica or alumina carriers for various industrial uses. It also serves in electrochemical and materials research as a proton-conducting component in membrane and electrode formulations for advanced technology.

Silicotungstic acid is supplied as a crystalline solid or powder, typically as the hydrated form. Technical and reagent grades are the most commonly available. Purity specifications range from technical quality up to ACS reagent grade for analytical applications. Packaging is offered in laboratory-scale or bulk quantities.