Potassium silicate
Description
Potassium silicate (CAS 1312-76-1), also known commercially as Kasil and listed as E560, is an inorganic binder and film-forming agent produced by fusing silica with potassium carbonate.
It functions as a bonding agent, corrosion inhibitor, and biocide across construction, industrial, and agricultural applications. In construction, it is the active binder in silicate paints and mineral coatings.
It reacts with masonry substrates to form a permanent, non-film-forming bond that resists weathering and biological growth. Water treatment operations use it to passivate pipe surfaces and control corrosion.
By forming a protective silicate layer on metal infrastructure, it ensures longevity. Textile and paper processing employ it as a fixative and sizing agent, improving fiber bonding and surface strength during finishing.
In industrial cleaning and detergent formulations, it acts as a builder and alkaline buffer. This enhances soil removal and prevents redeposition on hard surfaces during the cleaning process.
Potassium silicate is supplied primarily as a clear to slightly hazy aqueous solution. The solids content and silica-to-potassium ratio (SiO₂:K₂O molar ratio) vary depending on the specific grade required.
Solid forms, including powder and cullet, are available for applications requiring dry blending or controlled dissolution. Technical and industrial grades are standard for most manufacturing needs.
Food-additive grade is available in compliance with E560 specifications. Our products meet rigorous quality benchmarks to ensure consistent performance across all industrial and commercial sectors.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | >300°C |
| Density | 1.203-1.209 g/cm³ @ Temp: 20 °C |
| Appearance | (Solid) Weight ratio Si O 2 :K 2 O varies with grade from 2.1:1 to 2.5:1; colorless anhydrous lump, shattered or granular. Soluble in water at high temperature and pressure; insoluble in alco- hol. (Solution) Colorless liquid, B′e range 29–48 degrees. |
| Color | White |
| Form | Powder |
| Water Solubility | Soluble in water. |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| Storage Class | 11 - Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 3 |
Documentation
Other Names
Silicic acid, potassium salt|Kasil|Soluble potash glass|Soluble potash water glass|E560
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