Orthosilicic acid, commonly known as soluble silica, is a compound that plays a crucial role in various aspects of everyday life. It is found in natural sources such as certain fruits, vegetables, and water sources, as well as in dietary supplements. Orthosilicic acid is believed to contribute to the health of connective tissues, skin, hair, and nails, making it a popular ingredient in beauty and skincare products. Additionally, it is used in industrial processes such as the production of ceramics, glass, and electronics. The applications of orthosilicic acid illustrate its significance in both personal care and industrial sectors, making it a noteworthy compound with practical relevance in our daily lives.
Table of Contents:
- 💡 Commercial Applications
- ⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
- 🏭 Production & Procurement
- ⚠️ Safety Considerations
- 🔬 Potential Research Directions
- 🧪 Related Compounds
💡 Commercial Applications
Orthosilicic acid, also known as soluble silica, is commonly used in commercial and industrial applications. It is widely utilized in the production of concrete, ceramics, and glass due to its ability to enhance the strength and durability of these materials. Additionally, orthosilicic acid is used in the manufacturing of paints, coatings, and adhesives for its binding properties.
In the realm of drug and medication applications, orthosilicic acid has shown promise as a dietary supplement for improving bone health and skin elasticity. Studies have suggested that orthosilicic acid may aid in the absorption of calcium and other minerals essential for bone strength. Furthermore, orthosilicic acid is used in certain skincare products for its potential benefits in promoting collagen production and skin rejuvenation.
Overall, orthosilicic acid plays a significant role in various industries and has potential applications in promoting human health and wellness. Its versatility and properties make it a valuable component in commercial, industrial, and healthcare sectors.
⚗️ Chemical & Physical Properties
Orthosilicic acid, also known as silicon tetrahydride, is a colorless liquid with no distinct odor. It is typically found in the form of a dilute aqueous solution.
The molar mass of orthosilicic acid is approximately 80.1 g/mol, and its density is around 1.4 g/cm3. In comparison to common food items, orthosilicic acid has a lower molar mass than glucose (180.156 g/mol) and a density similar to that of milk (1.03 g/cm3).
Orthosilicic acid has a melting point of -45°C and a boiling point of 160°C. These values are significantly lower than those of common food items such as butter (melting point: 32°C) and water (boiling point: 100°C).
Orthosilicic acid is highly soluble in water and has a low viscosity. This contrasts with common food items like sugar, which is also soluble in water but has a higher viscosity, and oil, which is not soluble in water and has a higher viscosity.
🏭 Production & Procurement
Orthosilicic acid, also known as soluble silica, is primarily produced through the dissolution of silica or silicon dioxide in water. This process occurs naturally in the environment, such as in the weathering of rocks containing silica. Additionally, Orthosilicic acid can be produced synthetically through the hydrolysis of silicon alkoxides.
Orthosilicic acid can be procured from various sources, including natural mineral deposits rich in silica. These deposits are mined and processed to extract the Orthosilicic acid. Alternatively, Orthosilicic acid can also be obtained through the dissolution of silica-rich materials, such as sand or quartz, in water. Once procured, Orthosilicic acid can be transported in liquid form and stored in appropriate containers to maintain its stability and purity.
⚠️ Safety Considerations
Safety considerations for Orthosilicic acid must be taken into account due to its corrosive nature. When handling Orthosilicic acid, proper personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and lab coat should be worn to prevent skin and eye irritation. It is important to work with Orthosilicic acid in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhalation of fumes which can cause respiratory irritation. In case of accidental ingestion or prolonged exposure, medical attention should be sought immediately.
The hazard statements for Orthosilicic acid include “Causes severe skin burns and eye damage” and “May cause respiratory irritation.” These statements serve as warnings for individuals working with Orthosilicic acid to be cautious and take necessary precautions to avoid potential harm. It is important for individuals to be aware of these hazards and handle Orthosilicic acid with care to prevent any accidents or injuries.
Precautionary statements for Orthosilicic acid include “Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection” and “IF SWALLOWED: Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting.” These precautionary statements outline specific actions that should be taken when working with Orthosilicic acid to minimize the risk of exposure and injury. By following these recommendations, individuals can safely handle Orthosilicic acid and reduce the likelihood of accidents or harmful incidents.
🔬 Potential Research Directions
One potential research direction for orthosilicic acid is its applications in the field of biomaterials. This compound has shown promise in promoting bone health and has potential for use in implant materials and tissue engineering.
Another area of interest could be exploring the effects of orthosilicic acid on skin health and aging. Some studies suggest that it may play a role in collagen synthesis and skin elasticity, making it a potential candidate for skincare products.
Furthermore, research could delve into the potential therapeutic applications of orthosilicic acid in various health conditions, such as osteoporosis, arthritis, and cardiovascular diseases. Understanding its mechanisms of action and optimizing its bioavailability could lead to the development of novel treatments.
🧪 Related Compounds
One similar compound to orthosilicic acid based upon molecular structure is metasilicic acid. Metasilicic acid, also known as silicic acid, can be considered as a condensed form of orthosilicic acid with a general formula of H2SiO3. It is formed when orthosilicic acid polymerizes at high temperatures or in concentrated solutions.
Another compound similar to orthosilicic acid is disilicic acid, with a general formula of H4Si2O5. Disilicic acid is formed when two molecules of orthosilicic acid condense or when a silicate mineral is dissolved, releasing two silicic acid molecules. Disilicic acid can further polymerize to form higher molecular weight silicates.
Silicic anhydride, or silicon dioxide, can be considered a similar compound to orthosilicic acid due to their shared silicate structure. Silicon dioxide, with a chemical formula of SiO2, can exist in various forms such as quartz, amorphous silica, and silicates. While orthosilicic acid is a hydrated form of silicon dioxide, both compounds share the fundamental silicon-oxygen tetrahedral structure.
