Industrial Silica Sand, also known as silica or quartz sand, is a high-purity form of sand that consists mainly of silicon dioxide (SiO₂). It is widely used in various industrial applications due to its unique properties, such as high melting point, hardness, chemical stability, and resistance to both physical and chemical weathering.
Some of its key uses include:
Glassmaking: Silica sand is a critical component in the production of glass, as it provides the silica needed for glass formation.
Foundry: It is used in foundries for molding and casting metal parts, where its heat resistance makes it ideal for metal casting processes.
Hydraulic Fracturing (Fracking): In the oil and gas industry, silica sand is used as a proppant in hydraulic fracturing to hold fractures open in the rock, allowing oil or gas to flow out.
Construction: It is an important ingredient in the production of building materials like concrete and mortar, as well as various fillers and extenders in construction products.
Ceramics and Refractories: Industrial silica sand is used in the manufacture of ceramics, including porcelain, tiles, and sanitaryware. It is also used in high-temperature-resistant materials.
Water Filtration: Its uniform particle size and high silica content make it useful in water filtration systems, especially for treating drinking water.
Chemical Production: Silica sand is used as a raw material in the production of silicon compounds and various chemical processes.
Its purity and grain size make it highly valued across these industries.
Hydrophilic Silica