Silica powders are commonly used in various industries due to their absorbent and thickening properties. Natural and synthetic silica can be obtained from silica sand and are found in non-food products. Diatoms and quartz powders also contain silica and are used in various products, including cleaners, cosmetics, and food and pharmaceuticals. However, inhaling silica can cause severe lung inflammation or cancer.
Many industries and manufacturers commonly use silica powders alone or in combination with other ingredients. The mineral has absorbent and thickening properties. These characteristics make silica useful in building materials, cosmetics and some foods.
Silica is one of the most common minerals on the planet. It is a component of sand and quartz along with other minerals. Manufacturers obtain natural silica by extracting and grinding the substance into granules or fine powders. Some companies make synthetic silica, but both types commonly start with silica sand. Both natural and synthetic silica powders are frequently found in non-food products.
Microscopic diatoms, which are hard-shelled skeletal remains of single-celled plants, also contain silica dioxide. These remnants exist in freshwater and saltwater beds. These types of silica are often referred to as amorphous silica. They are often ground into granules or a fine powder, sometimes called silica flour. Diatomaceous earth silica can be used in food or non-food products.
Quartz powders or glass powders are silica sand heated to extreme temperatures and molten. Artisans and makers shape and shape the molten material. Once cooled, the substance becomes glass. Paints, plastics, polyvinyl chloride glue, and corrosion resistant coatings all contain silica dust. In some of these products, silica acts as a thickening or hardening agent.
Some cleaners and detergents contain silica powders. Granulated mineral rubs surfaces by mechanical abrasion. Silica-based cleaners can be used to wash clothes, dishes, or can be found in general powdered cleaners. The abrasive action is also desired in some toothpastes, which contain diatomaceous earth silica as one of the ingredients. When used in hand cleaners, the abrasive nature of silica can cause a rash or other skin irritation.
Silica cosmetics contain the silky translucent powder to absorb skin oils. The mineral is thought to be hypoallergenic, and some believe the substance reduces the visibility of facial lines and wrinkles. Consumers can purchase silica powders and add the substance to lawns or soil to increase moisture retention. Some believe that the powdered form also determines or eliminates insect pests, although inhaling the product can lead to severe lung inflammation or even cancer.
The food and pharmaceutical industries commonly use silica powders due to the mineral’s ability to absorb up to 50% of its weight in moisture. The food grade, or diatomaceous earth form of silica powders, is commonly used as an anti-caking agent in coffee creamers, powdered foods, and condiments. The standalone gel packs often found in medication and over-the-counter supplement bottles usually contain some form of silica.
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