The OxyChem Sodium Silicates Handbook

Contents
Plant
Locations............................. Back Cover Safety Procedures...........................................13
Introduction....................................................2 Storage and Handling....................................13
Manufacturing Process..................................3 Unloading Tank Cars.....................................14
General Applications......................................4 Tank Trucks....................................................15
Principle Uses.................................................5 Steel Drums....................................................15
Specific Applications......................................9 Storage............................................................16
Principle Grades Pumps, Valves and Piping.............................16
Liquid........................................................11 Handling Sodium Metasilicates....................16
Sodium Silicate Technical Data...............................................18
Glass Briquettes........................................11 Methods of Analysis......................................21
Sodium Metasilicates................................12
Foreward
Users of Sodium Silicates will recognize the value and utility of a practical handbook, covering the proper methods of
handling, storing and using this important chemical. This information has been prepared to meet the needs of technical
and plant personnel who require operating data in their work, with minimum effort required for its interpretation.
Buyers and other interested individuals desiring information on Sodium Silicate Liquids, Sodium Silicate Glass
Briquettes, or Sodium Metasilicates will find most of their questions answered in this handbook. For the laboratory
person, basic information has been included on analytical procedures. If further assistance is needed pertaining to
Sodium Silicates, OxyChem’s sales, technical service and traffic departments are available by contacting your nearest
OxyChem location as listed on the inside back cover of this handbook.
“IMPORTANT LEGAL NOTICE: The information presented herein, while not guaranteed, was prepared by technical personnel and is
true and accurate to the best of our knowledge. OxyChem makes no warranty or guaranty, express or implied, regarding accuracy,
completeness, performance, stability or otherwise. This information is not intended to be all-inclusive as the manner and conditions of
use, handling, storage and other factors may involve other or additional safety or performance considerations. While our technical per-
sonnel will be happy to respond to questions regarding safe handling and use procedures, safe handling and use remain the responsi-
bility of the customer. No suggestions for use are intended as, and nothing herein shall be construed as, a recommendation to
infringe any existing patents or to violate any Federal, State or local laws. OxyChem assumes no liability of any kind whatsoever
resulting from the use of or reliance upon any information, procedure, conclusion, or opinion contained in this Handbook.”

1
1 of 24
 Introduction

Sodium Silicates
Sodium silicate is the generic name for a series of
compounds derived from soluble sodium silicate glass-
es. They are water solutions of sodium oxide (Na2O)
and silicon dioxide (SiO2) combined in
various ratios. Varying the proportions of SiO2 to
Na2O and the solids content results in solutions with
differing properties that have many diversified
industrial applications.
Occidental Chemical Corporation’s standard
commercial grades of liquid sodium silicates range in
weight ratio of SiO2 to Na2O from 1.6 to 3.3.
In addition to liquid sodium silicates, OxyChem
produces sodium silicate glass briquettes, as well as
metasilicates in granular anhydrous (S-25®) and
pentahydrate forms (Uniflo®26). Glass briquettes are
dissolved on-site by some large volume consumers
when freight savings can justify the equipment and
labor costs involved. The sodium metasilicates are
primarily used in cleaning compounds. Special
technical bulletins for these compounds are available
on request.
Sodium silicate glass is made by fusing high purity
silica sand and soda ash in open hearth furnaces at
1300 oC/ 2400oF. The molten glass is cooled, fractured,
and charged into vessels where it is dissolved under
pressure by hot water and steam. The various grades
of liquid sodium silicate are produced by varying the
alkali/silica ratio and the solids content.
OxyChem’s silicate plants are located throughout the
United States and are within convenient shipping dis-
tances of all major industrial areas.

2
2 of 24
 Sodium Silicate Manufacturing

Sand Soda Ash

Fuel Furnace 24000F

Water / 50%
Steam Dissolver Caustic
Soda

Adjust Ratio
And Solids

Liquid Dryer
Silicate
Storage

Granular
Meta
Silicates

3
3 of 24
 General Applications

This list includes both major and minor Detergent Formulations Paint & Rubber Fillers
uses for silicates. The uses noted illus- Dishwashing Paint Removers
trate the wide range of applications for Drilling Fluids Paints
sodium silicates. Mud Additive Paper Coating
Silicate Base Muds Paper Tube Winding
Abrasive Wheels Synthetic Muds Pelletizing Minerals
Absorbents Drum Washing Pigments
Adhesives Earthwork Construction Polishing Wheel Cement
Asbestos Products Egg Washing Portland Cement
Bar Soaps Poultry Processing
Fiber Drums
Beater Sizing of Paper Fire-Resistant Paint Radiator Compounds
Bleaching Textiles & Paper Floor Cleaners Release Agent
Boiler Compounds Fly Ash Structural Materials Rust Removers
Brick-Making Foil Laminating Sealing Containers
Briquetting Foundry Sealing Metal Castings
Coal Cores Secondary Oil Recovery
Glass Hot Tops Silica Gel
Ores Molds Aerogel
Buffering Agent Frits Hydrogel
Building Materials Fruit & Vegetable Peeling Xerogel
Acoustical Insulation Soap Conditioners
Ground Water Control
Building Blocks Soap-Making
Canals, Ponds, Waste Lagoons
Thermal Insulation Soil Solidification
Sewer Sealing
Wallboard Solid Fiberboard
Shaft Tunnel & Mine Sealing
Cements Wells, Caissons, Irrigation Source for Silica Sols
Acid-Proof Space Vehicle Paint
Heavy-Duty Cleaning
Chimney Steam Cleaning
Hog Scalding
Furnace Synthetic Catalysts
Refractory Laminating Metal Foil Synthetic Detergents
Spark Plug Laundry Operations
Textile Processing
Stove Leather Processing
Timed Fertilizers
Ceramics Liquid Detergents
Tire Cleaners
Cement Grouts Lithographic Printing
Titanium Dioxide
Chemical Grouting Magnesium Trisilicate
Ultramarine
Cleaning Compounds Metal Cleaning
Coagulant Molded Articles Vegetable Oil Refining
Coatings Molecular Sieves Washing Locomotives
Enamels Oil Reclaiming Water Clarification
Roofing Granules Oil Wells Water Treatment
Welding Rods Cementing Casing for Later Wire Drawing
Concrete Cleaners Recovery Zeolite (Synthetic)
Concrete Treatment Corrosion Control
Corrosion Control Formation Cleaning
Corrugated Board Fracture Fluids
Dairy Cleaners Heavy Shale
Deflocculation of Clays Water Exclusion
Dehumidifiers Workover Fluids
De-inking Paper Ore Flotation

4
4 of 24
 Principle Uses of Sodium Silicates

Adhesives Other advantages of sodium silicates as

binders in cements are ease of applica-
following industries:
and Cements tion, low costs, and a strong bonding
The Pulp & Paper Industry, where
they brighten both soft and hardwood
Liquid sodium silicates of suitable con- action for many types of surfaces.
pulps. They are used mainly with
centration, usually in the weight ratio mechanical ground-wood pulps to
range of 2.8 to 3.3 are widely used as Pulp & Paper upgrade newsprint stock, and with
adhesives in making fiber drums, paper whiter goods such as toweling,
tubes, and miscellaneous materials. napkins, magazine stock and better
Sodium silicate is an excellent adhesive quality printing papers.
for sealing fiberboard boxes because it
sets quickly and firmly holds the flaps The Waste Paper or Paper
together. The advantages of soluble Recycling Industry, where sodium
silicate adhesive include the easy wet- silicates aid in repulping and de-inking
ting of the surfaces to be joined, con- operations. Silicates stabilize and
trolled penetration, suitable viscosity, buffer peroxide bleaching steps to
good setting characteristics, and high provide a whiter recycled pulp.
strength. OxyChem’s Grade 40 liquid
Sodium silicates are especially valu- sodium silicate is the preferred
able as adhesives because they can silicate for wood pulp bleaching
change from a liquid to a semi-solid operations. Grade 50 is also used
condition upon the loss of a small in pulp bleach liquor and can achieve
amount of water. This property results cost savings in some situations.
in the adhesive taking a quick, initial As efforts to recycle paper increase,
set - so important in the modern, high- waste paper has become a key raw
speed machine manufacture of paper material. Approximately 25% of the
products. fiber used by paper and board mills
Sodium silicate solutions of widely now comes from waste paper, and this
varying ratios are used for making amount continues to increase. Ten to
many kinds of cement, including types fifteen percent of waste paper is
for acid-proof construction, refractory Sodium silicates are used for de-inking, de-inked and bleached to make whiter
uses, and binding thermal insulating sizing, coating, and bleaching of recy- grades of paper. The balance is used in
materials. Cements made with sodium cled paper products in the pulp and paper board products where
silicates are used for lining and laying paper industry. brightness and cleanliness are not as
refractory units, preparing foundry important.
Sodium silicates have long been the
molds and cores, laying brick in sulfite stabilizer of choice for hydrogen perox- The de-inking process solubilizes
digesters for chemical wood pulps, and ide bleaching of cellulose. Hydrogen and removes nonfibrous materials, such
construction of acid-proof masonry. peroxide is an efficient and economical as inks, from the fiber stock. This is
Cements for stoves, chimneys, fur- bleaching agent when properly stabi- usually accomplished by:
naces, coke ovens, spark plugs, and for lized against heavy metal ions,
binding metal to glass and porcelain •Mechanical pulping of paper to be
enzymes and other process impurities. recycled.
are often made using sodium silicates. Optimal efficiency is achieved when the
solution is correctly buffered in the alka- •Alkaline cook solution to suspend
There are a number of outstanding
line pH range. Sodium silicates are nonfibrous materials (primarily inks).
advantages of sodium silicates as
binders in the cement mixtures. These effective and •Washing and/or flotation to separate
include resistance of the set cements to economical stabilizers and buffering de-inked fibers from impurities.
acid, to high temperature, and to water. agents. Sodium silicates perform many of the
Silicate cements may be set by the Sodium silicates and hydrogen roles in the waste paper reclaiming
reaction of an added substance, causing peroxide are used together for the process. They act as buffering agents,
the formation of a silica gel or heavy bleaching of cellulose, in the regulating the intensity of alkaline
metal silicate.

5 of 24
 Principle Uses of Sodium Silicates

conditions. They also prevent The use of synthetic detergents has

unnecessary degradation of the fiber grown very rapidly. These detergents
stock during the alkaline cook Silicates were first used alone and later, in
also act as dispersing agents, suspending combination with phosphates and other
inks and other undesirable materials, builders as the detergent properties were
preventing their redeposition onto greatly improved. However, a serious
the fiber. weakness developed with the introduc-
tion of these detergents for household
Detergents washing tasks. It was found that the syn-
& Soaps thetic detergent compositions were corro-
sive to aluminum, zinc, and certain metal
Many detergent operations are alloys used in domestic washers. There
performed using both the liquid and was also attack on porcelain enamel and
dry granular forms of sodium silicates. overglaze fine china decorations. The
Such operations range from metal clean- incorporation of sodium silicate in the
ing, textile processing, laundering and compositions brought these corrosion
de-inking paper, to washing dishes, dairy and alkali attack problems under control.
equipment, bottles, floors, and locomo-
tives. For instance, in the textile indus- While many new detergent products
try, sodium silicates are used with have since been introduced, sodium
bleaches, soaps, wetting agents, silicates still perform the same
property of UNIFLO makes it especially functions in these new products.
synthetic detergents and other alkalies in
suitable for dry mixing with other clean-
operations such as cleaning and
finishing, kier boiling, wool scouring,
ing agents such as various Gels, Catalysts and
bleaching and degumming.
phosphates, soda ash, caustic soda, Zeolites
and wetting agents. Soak-tank, spray,
A large amount of research has been and electrolytic types of cleaning are Silica gels may be prepared by treating
done on the principles of cleaning and carried out using alkaline solutions. sodium silicate solutions with acids,
detergent processes, helping to establish the Generally, sodium silicates in the meta washing the precipitated silicic acid to
value of sodium silicates as to ortho ratio range are important remove soluble salts, drying, and reducing
detergents. ingredients in these solutions. the resultant product to suitable particle
Temperatures in alkaline cleaning size range. Siliceous ratio
Sodium silicates possess such
baths usually vary from around 160 0 F silicates are generally used for making
fundamental properties as low
for the spray-type process to just under silica gels. The end product, a granular
interfacial tension of solutions against
the boiling point for the soak-type and glassy material, has an immense
various components of dirt, good
electrolytic processes. internal pore area, giving it the capacity
emulsifying and suspending powers,
to absorb large quantities of moisture as
reserve alkalinity for neutralizing or For well over a century, both liquid well as other substances. This property
saponifying soil materials, and high silicates and metasilicates have been makes gels useful as dehumidifying
buffering power. Buffering enables added to soaps as builders. Liquid agents for air and other gases, and as fil-
detergent solutions to maintain approxi- silicate of a weight ratio around 3.3 tering agents to clarify juices and beers.
mately the same pH value on dilution, or is used in the order of 1% (anhydrous Specially prepared silica gels are used
until most of the alkalinity has been neu- basis) in bar and toilet soaps to prevent for making thermal insulation
tralized by acidic materials. rancidity. materials.
Cleaning with alkaline solutions is the In the commercial and the self-
oldest form of commercial metal clean- service types of laundries, metasilicates
ing and still the most widely used. The are used as soap builders. The silicate is
alkaline, crystalline metasilicates, such used either alone or in combination with
as UNIFLO 26 and S-25, are widely used other alkalies, and the detergent action is
for metal cleaning either separately or as considerably enhanced over that of soap
components in cleaning alone.
formulas. The granular, free-flowing

6
6 of 24
 Principle Uses of Sodium Silicates

Closely related to silica gels are the tures of different sized molecules. excavations.
amorphous silica powders which are Upon passage through a molecular
The stabilization of porous soils
used as additives to rubber products to sieve, a particular sized molecule in a
by sodium silicate is brought about by
provide abrasion and wear resistance. mixture is retained in and on the pores,
an induced gel formation of a silicate
Other uses for these silica products are thus effecting a
solution after introduction into the soil.
for thickening agents in inks, plastics separation or screening action.
Gelling of the silicate solution results
and varnishes, suspending agents in
in a modified soil structure
paints, as well as anti-caking additives Foundry of increased strength and reduced
in various compounds, such as dusting
Another application of the gel-forming permeability. The gelling may be
powders and insecticides.
properties of sodium silicate is in the brought about by either immediate
Sodium silicate solutions react with foundry industry. Mixtures of sand and or slow reaction.
solutions of many soluble salts to form silicate for making both molds and In the first case, or immediate
complex gelatinous precipitates. For cores in the foundry are given an initial reaction, separate solutions of
instance, aluminum salts react with set by forcing CO2 gas under pressure untreated sodium silicate and of a
sodium silicate solutions to form sodi- through compacted forms. The initial reacting material are alternately
um-aluminum silicate gels which can hardening of the silicate-sand mix in introduced into the same soil
be processed to make base-exchange the CO2 process formation. Upon contact of the
materials particularly is caused by a chemical reaction two solutions in the subsurface soil,
suitable for water softening. between the carbon dioxide gas and immediate gelling occurs.
Many combinations of silica gel sodium silicate. The alkali of the
with other substances are used in mak- latter is partially neutralized, forming
ing catalyst materials. One of the most an gelatinous silicic acid which binds
widely used of these is the the sand particles together in a stiff
silica-alumina type of catalyst, which mass. Later, as the mix loses moisture,
contains alumina intimately associated further bond strength is provided.
with the silica gel. With careful and Molds and cores made by this process
precise processing, the dried silica-alu- can be used immediately and need not
mina catalyst is used in various opera- be dried or baked, as required in the
tions in the petroleum industry, such as case of oil or resin bonded forms.
the production of high octane gasoline. Sodium silicate solutions in the weight
Silica gels, with quantities of various ratio range from 3.22 to 2.00 are gener-
compounds co-precipitated or deposited ally recommended for foundry use.
after the siliceous material has solidi- Often certain organic materials, such as
fied, have been used to increase cat- sugars, are first mixed in the silicate to
alytic activity in a wide range of reac- impart special properties.
tions such as oxidation of organic com-
pounds, cracking petroleum hydrocar- Soil Stabilization
bons, and The gel-forming property of sodium
oxidation of sulfur dioxide to sulfur tri- silicate is used to advantage in soil sta-
oxide. bilization. Sodium silicate solutions,
Similar in some aspects to silica gel along with reacting chemicals, have
catalysts are the molecular sieve com- been used for the consolidation of
pounds formed by the reaction of sodi- porous soil structures for many years.
um silicate with various salts, such as Soils are solidified and stabilized to
sodium aluminate. increase their load-bearing capacity, to
arrest settlement and
The molecular sieve compounds are lateral movement of foundations,
crystalline in structure and have con- and to control the flow of water in
trolled internal pore sizes. This gives earthwork engineering projects such as
the sieve compounds the remarkable dams, mines, tunnels, and
property of being able to separate mix-

7
7 of 24
 Principle Uses of Sodium Silicates

In the second case, which is the pre- the siliceous liquids. The alkaline ratio
ferred method, reacting chemicals are Corrosion of iron in water systems may solutions dry to form films that are
mixed with the silicate solution, caus- be controlled by the addition of small slightly more flexible than those of
ing a delayed self-hardening action. amounts of sodium silicate, usually of siliceous ratios.
The delayed gelling solution, or chemi- siliceous ratio, which deposits a thin
If high temperatures are not practical,
cal grout, solidifies at a pre-determined protective film of silica on the metal.
the water resistance of a sodium silicate
time after being pumped into a pervious In alkaline cleaning operations, the
film may be enhanced by reaction with
soil formation. This grout solution may presence of sodium silicate in the deter-
an acid or certain salts, such as boric
be varied as to concentration, viscosity, gent solution inhibits attack by the alka-
acid, phosphoric acid, sodium silicoflu-
and gel time to meet various mixing li on aluminum and will greatly retard
oride, and aluminum phosphate. Such
and injection requirements. Hardening the attack on zinc. Again, a protective
materials may be incorporated in the
of the grout solution in the soil is uni- film on the metals derived from the
paint formula or applied as a solution in
form and complete. This method of sodium silicate inhibits the action of the
the form of a second coating or
single injection has the additional alkaline solution.
curing treatment.
advantage of using only one final solu-
tion. Coatings Two other well-established
applications of sodium silicate
Silica Sols and Water Sodium silicate solutions, either coatings are for welding rods and roof-
Treatment unaltered or suitably modified, are used
in making various paints and coatings.
ing granules.

Silica sols of colloidal silica may be Upon losing small amounts of water,
prepared in several different ways. thin layers of liquid silicates first
Methods of preparation include dialysis, became tacky and then change to hard
electrodialysis, neutralization of a sodi- films.
um silicate solution by an acid
Considerable loss of water occurs
or acid substance, peptizing a silica
at ordinary room temperatures, but to
hydrogel, and passage of a sodium
render the film more water-resistant,
silicate solution through an ion
elevated temperatures are necessary for
exchanger for sodium removal.
drying.
The theory of formation of colloidal
silica in the activated form as used in If heat is to be used in the drying oper-
water treatment is generally regarded to ation, it is important that silicate films
be the growth of silica particles from and coatings not be exposed to an ini-
low molecular weight silicic acid. tial temperature that is too high.
Freshly liberated from the sodium silicate
The temperature should first be slow-
solution by neutralization, these acids
ly raised to around 210oF and held there
polymerize, increasing in molecular
until the majority of the water is
size, and form micelles of polymerized
removed. Then, the temperature may be
silicic acid with a strong negative
increased to the final level desired, such
charge. After a controlled aging period,
as in a 300-700oF range. Sudden heat-
the silica sol is diluted to prevent fur-
ing of the wet film to a high tempera-
ther polymerization and to stabilize for
ture is not desirable. Such treatment in
a relatively short time the activated sili-
many instances would cause steam for-
ca.
mation, resulting in blistering and loss
Activated silica sols are used in of integrity in the dried film. Infra-red
water purification as coagulant aids, heat is
flocculating impurities with aluminum suitable for drying silicate films.
and iron salts. In lime softening of
Sodium silicates used in coating and
water, activated silica acts as a primary
paint formulations vary in ratio from
coagulant. Activated silica is used in
about 2.0 to 3.3. The alkaline ratio sili-
the treatment of both raw and waste
cates dry somewhat more slowly than
waters.

8
8 of 24
Specific Applications for OxyChem Silicates

Use - Grade
Application Properties Advantages
Silicate

Abrasive wheels 40 Binding Economical binder

Acid-proof 40, 42 Acid resistance Economical -
cement High performance
Adhesive 40, 42, 47 Binder Strong bonds
formulations Economical

Briquetting glass 40, 42, 47 Binding Reduce dusting

batch and coal
Coating 40, 47 Film formation Low cost -
formulations Fire resistant
Coating roofing 40, 42, 47, 50 Film formation Fireproof -
granules Water resistance
Pigment binder

Corrosion 40, 42, 50 Film formation Reduces rust

control in and lead
water lines

Deflocculating 40, 42, 47, 50, 52 Dispersing More fluid -

clays action Power reduction
in brickmaking

De-inking paper All grades Deflocculating Whiter pulp

action
Drilling muds 40, 42, 50, 52 Colloidal Stabilizing well
bore
Engine coolants 40, 40 Clear Corrosion Protects radiators
inhibition and water pumps

Fiber drums 42 Adhesive - High strength

Fast set

Foundry molds 49 FG, 47, 50, 52 Binding Fast set

and cores
Furnace and 50, 52 Binding Plastic -
stove cements Heat resistance
Hardening 40, 42 Chemical Dust-proofs _
concrete Longer life
Hot tops for steel 40, 49 FG, 52 Binder Economical binder
ingot molds
Kier boiling
textiles JW-25, 40, 42, Detergent Whiter cloth _
JW Clear, 30 Clear Better dyeing

9 of 24
Specific Applications for OxyChem Silicates

Use - Grade
Application Properties Advantages
Silicate

Laminating 40, 45, 47, 49 FG Adhesive- High speed

paper and metal Fast set operation _
foil Thin film
application
Leak sealing 42, 47, 50 Film forming Economical _
compounds Rust inhibitor
Manufacture 40, 42, Chemical Convenient
of gels, silica source
catalysts, and
molecular sieves
Manufacture 40, 42, 49 FG, 50, Wetting and Metal protection _
of soaps, 52, Anhydrous emulsifying Increased
detergents and Metasilicate action detergency
industrial UNIFLO®
cleaners
Manufacture of 40, 42 Coats particles Acid resistance
titanium dioxide Reduces chalking
Manufacture of 40, 42, Coats particles Increased acid
ultramarine resistance of
pigment
Metal cleaning Anhydrous Wetting and Increased
Metasilicate emulsifying detergency
UNIFLO® action
Ore flotation 40, 42, 47, 50, 52 Deflocculating Improved
UNIFLO® action separation
Paper beater 40, 42 Formation of Smooth, hard
sizing precipitates paper surface

Paper products 40, 42 Adhesive- High strength

Fast set board-
Ready to use
adhesive
Imparts some fire
resistance

Pelletizing 40, 42 Binding Fast set-

minerals Strong bond
Pulp bleaching 40, 40 Clear, 50 Buffering and Conserves
sequestering oxygen
agent
Slurry thinner 40 Transport and Improved
handling transportation
economics
Soil stabilization 40 Chemical Increased load
bearing-prevents
foundation
settling- prevents
cave-in during con-
struction

10
10 of 24
 Principle Grades of OxyChem Sodium Silicates

% % Weight Ratio Viscosity

% Gravity Stormer
Grade Na20 Si02 H20 Si02 /Na20 o
Be Seconds

40 9.1 29.2 61.7 3.22 41.5 75

40 Clear 9.1 29.2 61.7 3.22 41.5 75

42 9.3 30.0 60.7 3.22 42.5 140

JW Clear 10.6 26.9 62.5 2.54 42.0 23

JW-25 10.6 26.9 62.5 2.54 42.0 23

47 11.2 31.9 56.9 2.84 47.0 250

49 FG 12.4 32.1 55.5 2.58 49.0 230

52 13.9 33.4 52.7 2.40 52.0 640

50 14.7 29.4 55.9 2.00 50.0 122

WD-43 13.1 23.6 63.3 1.80 43.8 25

30 Clear 10.6 27.07 62.33 2.55 42.3 20

20 Clear 8.75 28.55 62.70 3.26 40.4 55

Gravity and Viscosity Values at 200 C Stormer Seconds x 2.75 = Centipoises

In addition to the above regular grades, OxyChem makes
special sodium silicates of different compositions to meet
customer specifications.

OxyChem Solid Sodium Silicate Glass Briquettes

Anhydrous Glass A clear glass in

Physical Form _ briquette or crushed
form
3.22 ratio**
Weight ratio _
typical Na20:3.22 SiO2
Weight per cu. ft._
briquettes_approx. 85-90 pounds

**Other ratios available.

11
11 of 24
 OxyChem Sodium Metasilicates

UNIFLO®
Sodium Metasilicate
Pentahydrate
Physical Form A white,
free-flowing
granular product
Molecular ratio
and hydrate-
approx. Na2O-SiO2-5H2O
pH values (3) at room
temperatures
0.1% solution 11.5
1.0% solution 12.4
5.0% solution 13.0
S-25 Anhydrous Sodium
Total Na2O - typical 29.2% Metasilicate
Solids content - typical 58.2% Physical Form A white, Bulk bags (Super sacks)
Melting point 72.2OC free-flowing Bulk Rail Cars
granular product Bulk Trucks
Containers NetWeight (Approx.)
Molecular ratio -
Uses
Multiwall bags 50 lb. approx. Na2O - SiO2
Dairy cleaning
100 lb. Floor cleaning
pH values (3) at room
25 Kg bags temperatures Detergent formulations
Laundry operations
Bulk bags (Super sacks) 0.1% solution 11.8
Dishwashing compounds
Bulk Rail Cars 1.0% solution 12.7
Metal cleaning
Bulk Trucks 5.0% solution 13.2
Industrial cleaners
Uses Soil stabilization
Total Na2O - typical 51.0%
Dairy cleaning Solids content - typical 99.5%
Laundry operations
Detergent formulations Melting point 1089oC
Metal cleaning
Dishwashing compounds Containers Net Weight (Approx.)
Paper mill operations Multiwall bags 50 lbs.
Car wash 100 lbs.
Industrial cleaners
Concrete cleaning 25 Kg. bags

12
12 of 24
 Safety Procedures in Handling Sodium Silicates

Liquid Silicates
Sodium silicates are non-flammable,
Metasilicates
non-explosive, and non-toxic. They The granular metasilicates are also
are, however, alkaline materials and non-flammable and non-explosive
pose hazards to the skin and eyes. The but are highly alkaline. The compounds
physiological effects of contact vary themselves, as well as water solutions
with the alkalinity of the silicate of the metasilicates, may cause chemical
involved, and range from causing irrita- burns to the skin and eyes. Appropriate
tion to causing chemical burns. eye protection, as well as protective
While the liquid grades of sodium clothing and gloves, must be worn
silicate of greater than 1.6 weight ratio when handling sodium metasilicates.
are not strongly alkaline, they should Consult the specific material safety
be handled with care. If there is any data sheet for detailed handling instruc-
risk of silicate solution splashing in the tions and recommended first-aid proce-
eyes, goggles should be worn. It is dures prior to use.
also recommended that appropriate
protective clothing and gloves be worn
to prevent silicate solutions from com-
ing into contact with the skin. Prior to using any liquid silicate,
Additionally, the use of oil-based cold carefully read and comprehend the
cream or petroleum jelly on skin areas material safety data sheet specific for
that could possibly come in contact the grade of silicate being used.
with the silicate would also be benefi-
cial. Under no circumstances should
liquid sodium silicates be taken inter-
nally.

Storage and Handling

The various grades of liquid sodium In those instances where a
silicates are supplied in quantities vary- customer’s plant is located near
ing up to 16,000 gallon lots. a sodium silicate plant and the
The smallest quantity normally shipped silicate requirements are large,
is in 55 gallon steel drums. Larger it is sometimes economical to
shipments are made in tank trucks and construct a pipeline between the
railroad tank cars, by pipelines, and in two plants and make silicate
large, synthetic deliveries through the line.
rubber, collapsible containers.
Tank truck shipments of silicates in
order of 3,000- 4,000 gallon quantities
are usually made for deliveries to
customers requiring less than tank car
quantities. Larger shipments are
ordinarily made in 16,000 gallon and
10,000 gallon railroad tank cars.

13

13 of 24
 Unloading Tank Cars

Sodium silicate tank cars may be unloaded foot valve, replace the dome cover using a the pipes. The caps or plugs should then
by gravity flow (if the top of the receiving gasket and tighten. Then attach an air be replaced on the steam inlet and outlet
tank is lower in level than the outlet of the pressure line at the connection connections.
tank car), by pumping, or by air pressure. provided on the dome cover. When air
Arrangement of the unloading mechanism is turned on the silicate will start to flow 7. After all the silicate has been unloaded
varies somewhat with different tank cars. from the car. Care should be taken not from the tank car, close the foot valve (6)
to use air pressures greater than about by turning the valve rod handle (3), and
Figure 1 gives a sectional sketch of a 25 psig since the safety valve (2) is set to remove the connecting ribbed rubber hose
tank car showing one arrangement of the release at 25 to 30 psig. For safety, there and angled fittings. Screw on the pipe plug
unloading mechanism. The outlet (9) on should be installed in the air line to the or cap to the car outlet connection. Then,
the tank car is a special 4 inch fitting dome a gauge and a safety valve set to add about 50 gallons of water to the car to
which is usually reduced to a 2 or 3 inch release at 25 psig. prevent hardening of the
size for capping or plugging. In any case, silicate around the foot valve, and replace
the outlet line of the tank car should be 6. If necessary to heat the silicate with the dome cover (1). Any other connections
connected to a 3 inch line leading to the steam, first loosen dome cover. Then that have been made should be disconnected.
storage tank. Some cars are equipped with remove the caps or plugs from the steam
a gate valve and plug, instead of a valve coil inlet (8) and outlet (7) connections, 8. After the car is empty, precautions
cap assembly with plug as shown in the and attach a steam line to the inlet connec- should be taken to insure that the unloading
illustration. The cars are usually equipped tion (8). Introduce steam slowly into the line is drained or thoroughly flushed.
with steam coils for warming or thawing line until the pipes are heated, and steam Otherwise, the silicate may harden or
the sodium silicate in cold weather. and condensate emerge from the coil outlet freeze in the line. It is good practice to
(7). Steam may then be make the flexible connection on the
Referring to Figure 1, instructions are unloading line removable so it can be
noted below for unloading sodium somewhat increased, but care should be
exercised to prevent rupture of the steam disconnected and soaked in water to
silicate from tank cars. prevent hardening of silicate in the threads
heater pipes. Since prolonged use of
1. Set handbrake and block wheels after steam is not desirable, turn off the steam or joints. If unloading is by
car is properly spotted. Caution signs and unload as soon as the silicate is warm gravity, the unloading line may be cleared
should be placed at both ends of the car enough to flow readily. Low pressure by blowing with air or steam from the tank
being unloaded to warn persons, as well as steam at 5-15 psig should preferably be car end of the line. If a pump is used, the
switching crews, that the tank car is con- used to prevent possible deposits on the line should be pumped dry and the valve
nected. Derail attachments are coils. closed on the pump inlet. Then, the line
sometimes advised for the open end of the should be blown back from this point. The
siding. Goggles or face masks should In any case, turn the steam off before the pump is usually left full of silicate. The
be worn to guard against eye injury. silicate has dropped below the level of the tank car end of the line should then be
heating coils inside the car. After the car is capped to
2. Remove the dome cover (1), and try out unloaded, any condensate remaining in the minimize drying of any remaining silicate.
the foot valve (6) to make certain it is in coils should be blown out using com-
the closed position. pressed air. This is to
prevent possible freezing and bursting of
3. Remove valve cap assembly (10) at the
bottom of the outlet (9), and attach tank
car angle connection and hose or pipe to
storage tank. If it is convenient to use the
2 inch opening, remove the 2 inch plug
and bush to 3 inch for connection to the
rubber hose or pipe.
4. Return to the dome and open the foot
valve (6) by turning the valve rod handle
(3). Leave dome cover off unless unload-
ing with air pressure. If unloading with a
pump, start the pump after the foot valve is
opened. With gravity flow unloading, the
silicate will start to flow when the foot
valve is opened.
5. If air is employed for unloading, use the
following procedure. After opening the

14
14 of 24
 Tank Trucks

Tank truck shipments of liquid sodium

silicate are made in quantities of
approximately 3,500 gallons.
The unloading of a tank truck is han-
dled by the truck driver using a pump
or air compressor mounted on the
truck. Normally, 10 and 20 foot
lengths of heavy rubber hose are car-
ried on the truck for connecting to the
line provided by the customer and
leading to the storage facility, or tank.
The unloading line to the storage tank
should be 3 inch steel pipe and located
inside to the extent possible to prevent
freezing. The connecting end should
be threaded and capped to prevent the
setting up and hardening of liquid sili-
cate. A plug type valve should be in
this line close to the capped end.

Steel Drums

Drum shipments of liquid sodium In using a drum cradle for partial composition. To restore to the original
silicate are made in 55 gallon non- withdrawals of silicate, the drum uniform composition, a thorough
returnable steel drums. should first be upended with the end mixing is required which is difficult to
having a 3/4 inch plug on top. The accomplish in drums. Therefore, to
Air pressure should never be used on plug is removed, and replaced with a avoid a mixing operation, it is recom-
silicate drums in emptying them. The 3/4 inch gate valve drum spigot. The mended that the silicate not be allowed
drums are not built as pressure vessels, drum is then placed in a horizontal to freeze. Furthermore, if the silicate is
and could rupture under position on the drum cradle with the kept at ordinary room temperatures emp-
pressure causing a serious accident. 2 inch plug on top. As silicate is with- tying from the drum is more easily
Shipments of sodium silicate in drawn, the 2 inch plug should be slight- accomplished by avoiding the higher vis-
drums require an unloading dock for ly opened to allow air to enter the cosities due to lower temperatures. On
moving the drums in and out of the drum. After finishing a withdrawal of the other hand, drums of silicates should
motor truck or railroad boxcar. For silicate, this plug should be screwed not be stored in places where the temper-
moving, handling, and emptying drums down to close the opening. ature is extremely high such as next to a
of silicate in the plant, use is ordinarily furnace or heater. In general, tempera-
Drums should be stored in a dry, and
made of such equipment as drum hand tures under 90OF are desirable since pro-
in winter a reasonably warm, ware-
trucks, fork lift trucks, hoists, and drum longed storage at higher
house. If allowed to become cold
cradles. Drum temperatures may cause gradual
enough to freeze, which occurs
cradles are useful in handling and hold- thermal decomposition.
a little below 32OF, liquid grades of
ing drums for dispensing small quanti- sodium silicate, upon thawing,
ties of silicate.
separate into layers of different

15

15 of 24
 Storage

The general rule for storage capacity is Location of storage tanks inside a heat- Long storage or storage at elevated
1.5 times the normal shipment volume. ed building is desirable to minimize cold temperatures should be avoided.
Tanks may be constructed of 1/4” mild weather troubles. Outside storage tanks
Foreign materials of all types should be
steel but 3/8” gauge is preferred. Plastic should be insulated (1 1/2” thick insula-
kept out of silicate storage tanks, and
tanks made from alkali resistant polyeth- tion is usually adequate) and
inspection made at regular intervals to
ylene or polypropylene may also be used. provided with heating coils in most areas.
note any accumulation of sediment on
Silicate storage tanks should be covered External heating coils are
the bottom of the tanks. Formation of
and provided with a recommended, since internal heating,
sediment, or “bottoms,” should be
manhole for inspection. Storage tanks except of the mildest type, probably
cleaned from tanks as necessary.
should also be provided with a vent and will result in “baking” the silicate on
inlet and outlet lines. If tank car the heating unit. Furthermore, internal
shipments are to be received, the heating may cause undue concentration
storage tank should preferably have a of the silicate solution, and the formation
capacity of not less than about 20,000 of an excessive quantity of sludge or “bot-
gallons. toms” in the tank.

Pumps, Valves and Piping

For handling the various grades of usual piping requirements.
liquid sodium silicate, rotary or For most silicate installations, rubber
centrifugal type pumps have been diaphragm or plug type valves are
found satisfactory depending upon satisfactory. Gate valves are often
the job to be performed. Flooded used, but globe valves are generally
suction is required for centrifugal pumps, to be avoided. The use of brass,
but such pumps normally require less bronze, copper, or aluminum on
maintenance since the wetted parts should be avoided.
packing gland is not subjected to full dis-
A special OxyChem Technical Bulletin
charge pressure. Rotary pumps
on storing and handling liquid sodium
are used for services requiring positive
silicates is available for those desiring
action, and are self-priming. All iron
more detailed information.
construction is satisfactory for silicate
pumps, and standard steel pipe meets the

Handling Sodium Metasilicates

Bulk truck shipments have been found A tank-type trailer is available for this ser- In the bulk storage and handling of
practical for UNIFLO® sodium metasilicate vice and is equipped with a build-on sodium metasilicates, the following pre-
pentahydrate, and anhydrous sodium unloading system which pneumatically cautions should be observed:
metasilicate. In particular, this is true unloads the metasilicate into the storage 1. Avoid moisture pickup in the
where the distances involved are not great bin. The unloading operation is carried storage bin with a desiccator breather.
and the consumption is not large enough out by the truck driver, thus making a
to justify rail delivery. Through bulk han- complete delivery. 2. Schedule shipments of material to
dling sodium metasilicates, a savings can avoid prolonged periods of storage.
be realized in raw material costs and intra-
3. The discharge opening of the
plant handling.
storage bin should have a slope of at
least 60 degrees.

16
16 of 24
 Handling Sodium Metasilicates cont’d

Equipment tahydrate. Prefabricated bins,

suitable for metasilicate storage, are
ating pressure. The bag is 4’ in diame-
ter and 6’ long, or a total cloth area of
There is shown in Figures 2 and 3 a manufactured by several companies. 75 sq. ft. This allows for more than
drawing illustrating a typical storage Generally, these bins afford consider- three times the volume of air to be
facility for UNIFLO® sodium metasili- able savings over the custom-built vented from the tank.
cate pentahydrate. A description of the installations. 75 sq. ft. x 20 CFM/sq. ft. = 1500 CFM
equipment required follows: capacity 1500 CFM capacity - 450 CFM
An unloading auger can be purchased (truck compressor rating) = 3.3
1. Unloading line with the bin. The standard 6” auger
For receiving material from the self- * Reg. T.M. of E.I. du Pont de Nemours
will give a discharge rate of about 750
unloading truck, a transmission line cubic feet per hour. 5. Desiccator
made with 4” standard pipe is required. To avoid moisture laden air entering
3. Vent piping
An adapter, OPW Kamlok No. 633A, An 8” vent pipe connection from the the storage bin, a desiccator is recom-
is required on the 4” line to make the dust filter and desiccator is required. mended for the bin vent. The desicca-
flexible hose connection to the trailer. Slide gates should be provided to tor will contain a desiccant such as cal-
A cap is needed on the open pipe to insure having the vent open to the bag cium sulfate, calcium chloride,
keep the bin airtight and free of mois- filter during unloading. silica gel, or a prepared mixture.
ture. 4. Bag filter Changes in atmospheric temperature
To allow for a 5’ radius bend in the Since less volume of air is used in and pressure will cause some passage
flexible hose, the fixed transmission this system than in a conventional of air in and out of the bin. However,
line inlet should be 5’ above ground pneumatic system, the air separation is most air will enter as material is being
level. relatively simple. A bag filter over the evacuated. The desiccator size is deter-
8” air outlet is all that will be required. mined then by the flow rate from the
2. Storage bin bin auger. A 6” auger, for example,
We suggest using a resin-treated
A 9’ diameter cylindrical, 60O cone will have a flow rate of 750 cubic feet
Dacron* cloth for the bag. The cloth
bottom bin with a capacity of about per hour. The desiccator should be
style #702-50 is used successfully in
1200 cubic feet is suggested. This size sized to handle that volume of air.
self-unloading truck installations. This
bin will hold approximately 30 tons of
cloth has a permeability rating of 20
UNIFLO® sodium metasilicate pen-
CFM per square foot at the 15 psi oper-

17

17 of 24
 Technical Data

This section presents tables and charts gives the gravity-viscosity relationship for the 3, it is seen
giving chemical and physical data on principal ratios of OxyChem liquid sodium sil- that the gravity and viscosity values
sodium silicates. icates. Viscosity values were obtained using a correspond to a 3.2 ratio. From
Stormer viscometer, an instrument commonly Chart 2, a solids content of
Viscosity Change with Temperature - employed in the soluble silicate industry. The 38.0% is given for a 3.22 ratio
There is a rather large change in viscosity val- unit of Stormer seconds used in Chart 3 has a sodium silicate of 41.2 O Baumé.
ues with change in temperature for the conversion factor to absolute viscosity units Then,
relatively viscous sodium silicate solutions. over an approximate range of 80 to 950 cen-
Chart 1, gives curves showing the change in tipoises (equivalent to 29 to 345 Stormer sec- % Solids content = % Na2O
viscosity with temperature change for the most onds) as follows: wt. ratio + 1
common grades of OxyChem sodium silicate.
Stormer seconds x 2.75 = centipoises
Table 1 gives pH values of commercial con- Or, 38.0
centrations of selected OxyChem grades of liq- The Stormer seconds unit as defined, while 4.22 = 9.0% Na2O, and
uid sodium silicate. an arbitrary one, is standard in OxyChem sodi- 38.0 - 9.0 = 29.0% SiO2
um silicate plants and for this reason is includ-
Gravity Correction for Temperature is shown ed along with centipoise values in this chart.
in Table 2. The standard temperature used for In using Chart 3, viscosity values Thus, the estimated composition of
measuring gravity and viscosity outside the range noted should be considered the sodium silicate is:
values of sodium silicate solutions is 20oC. only approximate. The composition of a
However, it is sometimes desired to convert liquid sodium silicate may be estimated from 9.0% Na2O
gravity figures obtained at temperatures other the gravity and viscosity values.
than 20oC to approximate values at 20oC. 29.0% SiO2
Example: A sodium silicate solution has a
Table 3 shows the relationship between gravity of 41.2 O Baumé and viscosity of 65 62.0% H2O
Specific Gravity and Degrees Baumé, as well Stormer seconds, both at 20 OC. Estimate the
as the lbs. per gallon equivalents. composition.
Solids Content - Chart 2, gives the solids con-
tent for different Baumé values at 20oC
of sodium silicate solutions of the principal
weight ratios that are made by OxyChem.
Gravity Viscosity Relationships - Chart 3, Solution: Using Chart

18
18 of 24
19 of 24
2.84
Ratio

2.84
Ratio

20 of 24
 Methods of Analysis

The information that follows is intended to The accuracy of the thermometer should is diluted with deionized water and
o
describe the various analytical procedures be within 0.3 F. Digital thermometers acidified with dilute hydrochloric acid.
used for sodium silicates in general terms. have proven to be more accurate than After evaporating to dryness on a hot plate,
If more specific details are needed, please glass-stem mercury thermometers. the resultant silica gel is rinsed free of
contact your nearest sales office. chlorides. The residue is ignited in a muf-
Gravity Determination fle furnace in a carefully weighed crucible.
A. The sodium oxide content of sodium The gravity of liquid sodium silicates is After cooling and weighing,
silicate is determined by a chemical o
usually measured at 68 F using a Baumé the residue is calculated directly as SiO2.
titration of a sample with standard hydrometer standardized against a Bureau
hydrochloric acid to pH 4.3 using either of Standards certified hydrometer. Ratio
a pH meter or a suitable indicator such as Measurements may be taken at tempera-
o
Sodium silicates are often described by the
methyl orange. The usual procedure is to tures other than 68 F and extrapolated to
o
weight ratio of the silicon dioxide to the
accurately weigh a 25 gram sample of the 68 F for reporting purposes by referring to sodium oxide, with the sodium oxide as
silicate and dilute to 500 ml with Table 2. unity. It may be calculated directly by
deionized water. A 50 ml aliquot is then
The relationship between degrees Baumé dividing the % SiO2 (determined from
titrated with 0.2 N HCI. For highly
and Specific Gravity is: either one of the above described
alkaline grades, a 15 gram sample is
procedures) by the % Na2O that has
suggested. Degrees Baumé = been chemically determined. A more
Calculations: 145 - 145/ Specific Gravity rapid, but still quite accurate, method con-
sists of carefully measuring the
o
% Na2O = ml HCIxNormality x 3.1 Specific Gravity = gravity and viscosity at 68 F. By
sample weight 145/ (145 - degrees Baumé ) referring to Chart 3, the ratio of the
SiO2 /Na2O ratio can be determined.
B. Viscosity Total Solids
Chart 2, shows the interrelationships
The viscosity of liquid sodium silicate The total solids of liquid silicates is the
of the ratio, gravity, and the solids content
solutions may be determined by either a residue remaining after careful ignition of
for the various liquid sodium silicates.
Stormer or a Brookfield Viscometer. The a small sample in a muffle furnace. The
instruments must be standardized against procedure consists of accurately weighing
Bureau of Standard oils in the viscosity a 1 to 2 gram sample into a tared,
range of the material being measured. previously fired, porcelain crucible and
o
OxyChem’s standard temperature for igniting to 1050 C for one half hour.
o
reporting viscosity data is at 68 F. A few drops of 30% hydrogen peroxide
Readings may be taken at other should be added to prevent spattering.
temperatures and extrapolated to 68 F
o After cooling in a desiccator, reweigh the
by referring to Chart 1. Data may be crucible. The weight of the residue is the
reported as either Stormer Seconds or % solids and is reported to the nearest
Centipoises. 0.01%.

The conversion factor we use for Silicon Dioxide

converting Stormer Seconds to Centipoises For all but the most critical situations,
is 2.75 (Stormer Seconds x 2.75 = the SiO2 content may be calculated by
Centipoises.) The single most important subtracting the % sodium oxide from
factor in obtaining satisfactory results, the % total solids as determined by the
besides careful instrument previously described procedures. For more
calibration, is a precise determination precise purposes, a weighed sample
of the temperature of the silicate solution.

21
21 of 24
OxyChem
OxyCh
We’ve got A Lot To Offer Our Silicates Customers.

22 of 24
Front Cover
 Foreword

Users of Sodium Silicates will recognize the

value and utility of a practical handbook, cov-
ering the proper methods of handling, storing
and using this important chemical. This
information has been prepared to meet the OxyChem Silicate Plants
needs of technical and plant personnel who
require operating data in their
work, with minimum effort required
for its interpretation.

Buyers and other interested

individuals desiring information on
Sodium Silicate Liquids, Sodium Silicate
Glass Briquettes, or Sodium Metasilicates will
find most of their questions answered
in this handbook. For the laboratory person,
basic information has been included on
analytical procedures. If further assistance is
needed pertaining to Sodium Silicates,
OxyChem’s sales, technical service and
traffic departments are available by
contacting your nearest OxyChem location as
listed on the inside back cover of this hand-
book.
OSHA Star Plant: The highest honor for excellence in
safety performance awarded by the Occupational Safety
and Health Administration.

23 of 24
Inside Cover
 Specialty Business Group
Silicates Division
SALES OFFICES TECHNICAL SERVICE SODIUM SILICATE PLANTS
NORTHEAST REGION OCCIDENTAL CHEMICAL AUGUSTA PLANT
1300 Morris Drive Suite 302 CORPORATION 1620 Marvin Griffin Rd.
Wayne, PA 19087 8800 South Central Expressway Augusta, GA 30916
(610) 640-1616 Dallas, TX 75241-7503 (706) 793-6205
(800) 733-9960 Ph. (214) 302-4410
Fax (610) 993- 9347 CHICAGO PLANT
Fax. (214) 302-4423
4201 West 69th. Street
SOUTHEAST REGION CORPORATE Chicago, IL 60629
2500 Windy Ridge Parkway HEADQUARTERS (773) 284-0079
Suite 1225
OCCIDENTAL CHEMICAL CINCINNATI PLANT
Atlanta, GA 30339
CORPORATION 4701 Paddock Rd.
(770) 952-3700
(800) 241-7779 Occidental Tower Cincinnati, OH 45229
Fax (770) 952-4211 5005 LBJ Freeway (513) 242-2900
Dallas, TX 75244
MIDWEST REGION DALLAS PLANT
(972) 404-3800
The Lisle Executive Center 1100 Lenway Street
3030 Warrenville Road Mailing Address: Dallas, TX 75215
Suite 330 P.O. Box 809050 (214) 421-7607
Lisle, IL 60532 Dallas, TX 75380
JERSEY CITY PLANT
(630) 505-3242 651 Tonnele Avenue
(800) 323-7228 CUSTOMER SERVICE
Jersey City, NJ 07307
Fax (630) 505-0978 (972) 404-3700
(201) 659-9019
(800) 752-5151
WESTERN REGION MOBILE PLANT
3000 Executive Parkway 1300 Jarvis Rd.
Suite 405 Mobile, AL 36614
San Ramon, CA 94583 (334) 452-7620
(510) 275-8100
(800) 733-4884
Fax (510) 275-1253
SOUTHWEST REGION
363 North Sam Houston
Parkway East
Suite 1400
Houston, TX 77060
(281) 931-0485
(800) 231-2430
Fax (281) 931-9072

Silicates Division, Specialty Business Group

Occidental Tower, 5005 LBJ Freeway
P.O. Box 809050, Dallas, TX 75380-9050
972/404-3800 58-2211 / 97 2.5M

24 of 24
Back Cover