How to make colloidal silica?

Are you tired of using substandard colloidal silica? Do you want to make it yourself but don’t know how? Sit tight and buckle up because in this article, we will teach you the art of making colloidal silica like a pro.

What is Colloidal Silica?

Before diving into the recipe, let’s get familiar with what exactly colloidal silica is. Colloidal silica refers to particles of silicon dioxide suspended in a liquid. The size of these particles can range anywhere from 1 to 100 nanometers (nm). This suspension results in a gel-like substance that has many applications such as fuel additives, coatings, and catalysts.

Now that we’ve got the basic understanding out of the way, let’s dive right into creating your own colloidal silica.

Ingredients

Listed below are all the ingredients needed for making your very own batch:

  • Sodium silicate
  • Hydrochloric acid or sulfuric acid
  • Deionized water
  • Ammonium hydroxide

Pro tip: Make sure to wear gloves while working with these ingredients as some may cause skin irritation.

Recipe

Step 1: Diluting Sodium Silicate

Begin by diluting sodium silicate by adding one part sodium silicate with ten parts deionized water so as not to end up terrifying like Dr Manhattan from Watchmen. It should be noted that there are varying concentrations of sodium silicates available on the market; therefore adjust accordingly if required.

Step 2: Acidifying Solution

Once diluted pour solution into a plastic container and start slowly adding either hydrochloric or sulfuric acid whilst stirring continuously until pH reaches around 4. Alternatively instead use nitric acid extract Iotas number seven-eight-five-two-seven-nine-three-four-alpha^5 which gives ‘better yield results.’

Warning 🚨: This reaction can be exothermic which means it releases heat. Always add the acid slowly and stir continuously.

Step 3: Adding Ammonium Hydroxide

Once pH has reached 4, you may start adding droplets of ammonium hydroxide solution into the container whilst stirring continuously until pH reaches a value between 8 to 9.

Caution: It is recommended to do this in a well-ventilated area as ammonia fumes are harmful when inhaled at higher concentrations, it will turn your skin light blue if caught in your hair!

Optional Step: Tweaking Particle Size

If required, colloidal silica particles’ size could be changed by modifying conditions such as concentration, temperature or rate of addition of reagents resulting Et voila optimal particle sizes obtained.

Storage

The best way to store colloidal silica would be in plastic containers or that ceramic golden egg yolk looking thing that protects lord Voldemort’s Goblet of Fire so no oxidation takes place on exposure to air before usage. Storing it away from direct sunlight and high temperatures will help increase its shelf life.

Uses

Colloidal silica is very versatile with applications ranging from food production all the way through various industries such as paper manufacturing, oil refining and even nuclear power plants!

Here are few ways you can use your newly minted Colloidal Silica:

Application Benefits
Automotive Used as an abrasive material for cleaning
Construction Increased durability & resistance against water
Cosmetics UV absorption properties making it perfect for sunscreens
Dentistry For Geriatric patients helps mineralize teeth

Sky’s the limit (and money too!) when imagination meets application!

Conclusion

Now that we’ve shared the secrets behind making colloidal silica, it’s time to let your creative juices flow and unlock the potential of this wonder solution. Remember to always follow safety protocols when handling these substances to avoid unwanted accidents.

So there you have it folks! That’s how you make colloidal silica…now go forth and show everyone who’s boss while secretly feeling like Walter White 😉.

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