Silicon Dioxide Powder | Multi-Industry Use Agent
Silicon Dioxide, also known as Silica and E551, is a natural compound made up of silicon and oxygen (molecular formula SiO2), two of the most abundant elements on Earth. Found naturally in foods like leafy green vegetables, bell peppers, brown rice, and oats, Silicon Dioxide can also be synthesised for various industrial and commercial applications. In the food industry it is widely recognised for its ability to prevent clumping and improve the flow of powders, functioning primarily as an anti-caking agent. It also serves to carry high viscosity liquids and provide precise dosing of high value liquid ingredients. Silica powder is widely used in pharmaceutical tablets, supplements, and personal care products. Its biological inertness ensures it won’t interfere with active ingredients, while its insolubility in water and acids contributes to stability and effectiveness.
Silicon Dioxide exists in two primary forms: crystalline and amorphous, depending on how the particles are arranged, but both forms offer the same essential properties. This product features amorphous, nano-sized particles in ultra-fine powder form, that’s easy to work with. It is a versatile, odourless, fluffy white powder with a high melting point of around 1600 ºC and a boiling point of 2230 ºC.
- Food & Supplements: Commonly used as a food additive, anti-caking agent in spices, salts, icing sugars, and powdered blends to prevent clumping.
- Pharmaceuticals: Acts as a glidant, disintegrant, and adsorbent in tablet manufacturing, ensuring smooth processing and stability of the product.
- Electronics: Due to its high melting point and stable insulating properties, it is used in the production of fibre optic cables, semiconductors, microchips, and wires.
- Cosmetics: Adds texture and absorbs moisture in personal care products like foundations, powders, and creams.
- Agriculture & Gardening: Applied as a soil amendment to improve soil structure, nutrient availability, and plant health. Silicon Dioxide strengthens plant cell walls, enhancing resistance to pests, diseases, and environmental stresses. It is also used in fertilisers and growth products to support better root development and overall plant vigor.
- Other Uses: Silicon Dioxide also serves diverse functions such as a matting agent, defoamer, rheology modifier, and abrasive, showcasing its versatility across multiple sectors.
Storage and Safety
Store in an odourless and dry place, away from heat sources. Seal well after use. For optimal handling and application of Silicon Dioxide due to the nano-sized particles, use protective gear including gloves, dust mask and safety goggles. Ensure you are in a well-ventilated area to minimize dust exposure and avoid inhalation of dust and contact with skin and eyes.
FDA generally recognises Silicon Dioxide as safe (GRAS). In the UK and EU it is authorised as a food additive, in accordance with Annex II and Annex III to Regulation (EC) No 1333/2008 on food additives. Specific purity criteria are defined in the Commission Regulation (EU) No 231/2012.
Ingredients: silicon dioxide E551. Allergens: May contain traces of milk powder.
Store in a dry place away from strong odours. Packaged in the UK.
