Sand Silica

Sand silica (or silica sand) is a natural mineral material composed primarily of silicon dioxide (SiO₂). It is one of the most common forms of silica found in nature, usually in the form of quartz.

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Origin and Form

• Origin: Naturally formed from the weathering of quartz-containing rocks, such as granite and sandstone.

• Physical form: Fine to coarse grained, white to yellowish in color.

• Other names: often called quartz sand or white sand.

Chemical Composition

The main component is SiO₂ (silicon dioxide), usually with a purity between 90-99.9%, depending on the source and leaching process.
In addition, there are small amounts of other ingredients such as:

• Fe₂O₃ (iron oxide)

• Al₂O₃ (alumina)

• TiO₂ (titanium dioxide)

Uses of Silica Sand

1. Glass industry: the main ingredient for making glass, bottles, and fiber glass.

2. Metal casting industry: as molding sand (foundry sand).

3. Cement & concrete industry: as a filler or additive to strengthen the mixture.

4. Water filter: used in water filtration systems due to its inert and porous nature.

5. Abrasives: used in sandblasting and metal surface cleaning.

6. Electronics: as a base material for silicon in the manufacture of semiconductor chips (after further purification).

Safety Notes

• Long-term exposure to silica dust can cause lung diseases such as silicosis.

• Therefore, in industry, workers are required to use protective masks and good ventilation systems.