SiO2 is the most common oxide of silicon. It is a white powder and has many uses in industry, including ceramics and glassmaking. SiO2 is also called silica, silicic acid, or silicic acid anhydride.

Silica is an important raw material for manufacturing glass and other materials used in construction and industry, including fiber-reinforced composites, insulation tiles, semiconductor devices and abrasives. Silica is also used in various kinds of paints and coatings as well as in food and cosmetic products.

The properties of SiO2 depend on the production method and its purity level.

SiO2 may be prepared by oxidation of silicon at temperatures above 900°C (1650°F).

Silicon dioxide can be produced by heating silicon with oxygen at temperatures above 900°C (1650°F). This process gives a mixture of amorphous and crystalline silica products. The amount of amorphous silica increases as the amount of oxygen increases, because it is more difficult to convert amorphous silicon dioxide into crystalline form than it is to convert crystalline silicon dioxide into amorphous form.

Last modified: October 11, 2022