Calcium silicate
Calcium Metasilicate, CalSil, Silicic Acid Calcium Salt
- CAS
- 1344-95-2
- EC
- 935-756-9
- Food Code
- E552
- Sectors
- Food & Nutrition, Building & Construction, Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants & Elastomers
Calcium silicate (CAS 1344-95-2) is an inorganic calcium salt of silicic acid supplied as a white or cream powder that is chemically inert, absorbs significant amounts of oil or water, and serves as an anti-caking agent, drying carrier, thermal insulation material and reinforcing filler. It is widely recognized for its superior anti-caking properties and ability to improve flow characteristics in powdered mixtures.
Featuring exceptional water absorption capacity, this material acts as a highly efficient drying agent and carrier for liquids, ensuring product stability in humid environments. Its porous structure allows it to absorb significantly more than its own weight in oil or water while maintaining a free-flowing state.
In industrial applications, it serves as a robust reinforcing filler and pigment extender, contributing to the durability and thermal insulation of end products. It is chemically inert, resistant to high temperatures, and available in Food Grade (E552) and technical specifications.
Typical Properties
| Molecular weight | 116.16 g/mol |
|---|---|
| Appearance | white or cream powder |
| Form | white monoclinic crystals |
| Color | white monoclinic crystals, crystalline |
| Odor | at 100.00?%. odorless |
| Melting point | 1540 °C |
| Density | 2.9 g/cm³ |
| Water solubility | insoluble H2O [HAW93] |
| pH | 9.5-11.5 (5% in H2O) |
| GHS signal word | Warning · Irritant / harmful |
| Grades available | Food Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Calcium silicate
Applications
- Food Processing: Acts as a premium anti-caking agent in powdered foods, table salts, spices, and baking powders to prevent clumping and ensure smooth dispensing.
- Thermal Insulation: Manufactured into calcium silicate boards and blocks to provide high-temperature insulation for industrial piping, furnaces, and fireproofing applications.
- Paints & Coatings: Functions as a functional filler and pigment extender to improve brightness, scrub resistance, and control sheen in interior and exterior paints.
- Pharmaceuticals: Used as an excipient and tablet disintegrant, aiding in the compression of active ingredients while managing moisture content.
Safety & Risks
Calcium Silicate is generally considered safe for industrial and food use but is classified as a nuisance dust. Inhalation of high concentrations may cause mechanical respiratory irritation. Personnel should ensure adequate ventilation and wear dust masks or respirators alongside safety goggles to prevent eye irritation during handling and transfer operations.
Packaging
- 25 kg Multi-ply Paper Bags
- 200 L Drums
- 500 kg / 1000 kg IBC Totes / Big Bags
- Bulk / ISO Tank