Synthetic Silica Gel

Silica gel is an amorphous and porous form of silicon dioxide, consisting of an irregular tridimensional framework of alternating silicon and oxygen atoms with nanometer-scale voids and pores. The voids may contain water or some other liquids or may be filled by gas or vacuum. In the latter case, the material is properly called silica xerogel.

As silica gel possesses selective surface properties, it finds wide application in adsorption of gases, water vapor and in chromatography. It is also used as a catalyst, particularly in water forming or water-consuming reaction and as a catalyst support. Micronized Silica gels are used as functional additives in coatings, plastics food, and pharmaceuticals.