Precipitated amorphous silica

Precipitated amorphous silica (CAS 68855-54-9) is a synthetic, high-purity silica manufactured through a wet chemical process.

Where is Precipitated amorphous silica used?

• Coatings and printing inks: viscosity control and anti-settling
• Matting effects in solvent-borne and waterborne systems
• Adhesives and sealants: flow adjustment and thixotropy in silicone and polyurethane systems
• Food: anti-caking agent in powdered ingredients, spice blends and dry mixes
• Pharmaceuticals: glidant and carrier in tablet and capsule manufacturing
• It functions as a rheology modifier, anti-caking agent and reinforcing filler.
• Processing and stabilization aid in permitted beverage and beer production applications.
• Reinforcing filler in rubber compounds.
• Anti-blocking and surface slip performance in compatible plastic films and polymer compounds.
• Carrier, absorbent, flow aid, or dispersion support in agricultural and industrial formulations.

Good to know: Distinct from naturally mined diatomaceous earth products such as Kieselguhr or Celatom FW 20. Food-grade material meets FCC and E551 standards; pharmaceutical-grade meets USP and Ph. Eur. specifications.

Formulation notes

• Can react with strong alkalis and hydrofluoric acid.
• Chemically related to quartz but differs significantly in atomic arrangement, particle structure, surface behavior, and occupational hazard profile.

Typical specification

• Types of microamorphous silica differ in silica content, water content, presence of stabilizers or impurities, pH of the aqueous suspension, density, specific surface area, particle size distribution and porosity.
• True particle density typically around 2.2 g/cm³.

Regulatory status

• Permitted as a food additive under E551 in the EU.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area in tightly closed, moisture-resistant containers.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.