Silica sand, also known as quartz sand, is composed primarily of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) and is valued for its physical and chemical properties. Here are the key properties of silica sand:
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1. Physical Properties:
– Color: Typically white or colorless, but impurities can give shades of yellow, brown, or red.
– Grain Shape & Size: Ranges from fine to coarse (0.075 mm to 4.75 mm), with sub-rounded to angular grains depending on origin.
– Hardness: High hardness (~7 on the Mohs scale), making it highly resistant to abrasion.
– Density: Around 2.65 g/cm³ (similar to quartz).
– Melting Point: ~1,650°C (3,002°F), making it suitable for high-temperature applications.
– Porosity & Permeability: High permeability due to uniform particle size, useful in filtration.
2. Chemical Properties:
– Chemical Formula: SiO₂ (≥95% purity; high-purity grades exceed 99%).
– Inertness: Chemically stable under normal conditions; resistant to acids (except HF) and alkalis.
– Refractoriness: High resistance to thermal shock and melting, ideal for foundry molds and glassmaking.
– Lo
eactivity: Does not react with water or most chemicals.
3. Industrial & Functional Properties:
– High Purity Grades (>99% SiO₂): Used in electronics (semiconductors), solar panels, and optical fibers.
– Hydraulic Conductivity: Effective in water filtration due to uniform particle size.
– Thermal Insulation: Used in refractory bricks and ceramics for heat resistance.
– Binding Ability: Forms strong molds when mixed with binders in foundry applications.
4. Key Applications:
– Glass manufacturing (~70% of silica sand use)
– Foundry casting molds
– Water filtration systems
– Construction (cement, mortar)
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