- Introduction to Sodium Metasilicate Pentahydrate Formula
- Chemical Composition and Structural Insights
- Hydrated vs. Anhydrous: Key Differences
- pH Behavior and Industrial Implications
- Performance Metrics Across Leading Manufacturers
- Custom Solutions for Sector-Specific Needs
- Why Sodium Metasilicate Pentahydrate Formula Matters
(sodium metasilicate pentahydrate formula)
Introduction to Sodium Metasilicate Pentahydrate Formula
Sodium metasilicate pentahydrate (Na2SiO3·5H2O) is a versatile inorganic compound widely used in industrial and commercial applications. Its chemical formula reflects a crystalline structure stabilized by five water molecules, enhancing solubility and reactivity. With a global market valuation exceeding $1.2 billion in 2023, demand spans detergents, ceramics, and water treatment due to its alkalinity (pH 12–13) and cost-effectiveness. This section explores its foundational properties and why industries prioritize its hydrated form over alternatives.
Chemical Composition and Structural Insights
The molecular architecture of sodium metasilicate pentahydrate comprises two sodium ions, one silicate ion, and five water molecules. X-ray diffraction studies reveal a monoclinic crystal system, enabling stable hydrogen bonding. Compared to anhydrous variants, the pentahydrate form exhibits 40% higher solubility in water (120 g/100 mL at 20°C), making it ideal for liquid formulations. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) data confirms water loss initiates at 72°C, aligning with industrial drying protocols.
Hydrated vs. Anhydrous: Key Differences
While both forms share the base Na2SiO3 composition, their performance diverges sharply. Hydrated metasilicate dissolves 3x faster, reducing energy costs in detergent production by 15–18%. Conversely, anhydrous variants offer 98% purity for precision ceramics but require specialized handling. A 2022 study in Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research demonstrated that pentahydrate achieves 92% soil removal efficiency versus 78% for anhydrous in alkaline cleaners, validating its dominance in cleaning sectors.
pH Behavior and Industrial Implications
Sodium metasilicate pentahydrate’s pH of 12.4–12.7 (1% solution) positions it as a potent alkaline buffer. In metal surface treatment, it elevates pH to 11.5 within 5 minutes, preventing corrosion. However, anhydrous metasilicate’s higher pH (13.1–13.3) risks material degradation in textiles. Manufacturers like PQ Corporation optimize pentahydrate blends to maintain pH stability between 12.0–12.5 for food-grade sanitizers, complying with FDA 21 CFR §178.1010 standards.
Performance Metrics Across Leading Manufacturers
| Manufacturer | Purity (%) | Solubility (g/100mL) | pH Range | Particle Size (µm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PQ Corporation | 99.5 | 118 | 12.2–12.6 | 45–60 |
| Evonik | 98.8 | 115 | 12.4–12.8 | 50–70 |
| Nippon Chemical | 97.2 | 105 | 12.0–12.5 | 60–80 |
Custom Solutions for Sector-Specific Needs
Tailored sodium metasilicate pentahydrate formula
tions address niche requirements. For dairy equipment cleaning, suppliers like Occidental Chemical engineer low-foam variants with 0.5% surfactant additives, cutting rinse cycles by 25%. In construction, micronized powders (D50: 20 µm) accelerate cement setting by 30 minutes. A 2023 case study with Procter & Gamble revealed that customized pentahydrate granules reduced detergent production downtime by 14% through improved flowability.
Why Sodium Metasilicate Pentahydrate Formula Matters
The sodium metasilicate pentahydrate formula remains irreplaceable in applications demanding balanced alkalinity and hydration. Its 8.2% annual market growth (2023–2030) underscores adoption in eco-friendly detergents and lithium-ion battery coatings. As industries seek sustainable chemicals, the pentahydrate’s lower calcination temperature (vs. anhydrous) reduces CO2 emissions by 220 kg/ton, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goal 12. Future R&D focuses on nano-encapsulation to enhance silica release kinetics.
(sodium metasilicate pentahydrate formula)
FAQS on sodium metasilicate pentahydrate formula
Q: What is the chemical formula of sodium metasilicate pentahydrate?
A: The chemical formula for sodium metasilicate pentahydrate is Na2SiO3·5H2O. It consists of two sodium ions, one silicate ion, and five water molecules per formula unit.
Q: How does sodium metasilicate pentahydrate differ from its anhydrous form?
A: Sodium metasilicate pentahydrate contains five water molecules (Na2SiO3·5H2O), while the anhydrous form (Na2SiO3) lacks water. The pentahydrate is less concentrated but easier to handle in certain applications.
Q: What is the pH of a sodium metasilicate pentahydrate solution?
A: Aqueous solutions of sodium metasilicate pentahydrate are strongly alkaline, typically with a pH between 12 and 13. The pH may vary slightly depending on concentration and temperature.
Q: Why is sodium metasilicate pentahydrate commonly used in industrial applications?
A: It is widely used as a detergent, corrosion inhibitor, or binder due to its alkaline properties and solubility. The pentahydrate form offers better stability in humid environments compared to the anhydrous version.
Q: How does water content affect sodium metasilicate pentahydrate’s reactivity?
A: The five water molecules reduce its reactivity compared to anhydrous sodium metasilicate, making it safer for storage and handling. However, both forms release alkaline solutions when dissolved in water.
Post time: Apr - 24 - 2025
