Sodium Silicate Solution (Water Glass)

Sodium silicate solution, or water glass (CAS 1344-09-8), is an alkaline solution of sodium silicate supplied by Global Chemicals LLC in SiO2:Na2O weight ratios of 2.0, 2.4, 3.22 and 3.75, at 35–50% solids, specific gravity 1.35–1.55 and pH 11–13, in 250 kg drums, 1,000 L IBCs and bulk from stock in Muscat and Rusayl Industrial Area.

Choosing the ratio. The ratio sets the character of the product. Low ratios (2.0–2.4) carry more alkali: they are the builders and corrosion inhibitors in detergent and degreaser formulations, the deflocculant in clay slips and drilling fluids, and the alkali source in deinking and bleaching. High ratios (3.22–3.75) carry more silica: they are the binders and densifiers, forming a glassy silica film as they dry or a calcium silicate gel when they meet lime. Solids and viscosity are then chosen for the pump and the process.

Uses in Oman: as a concrete densifier and waterproofing treatment, where the solution penetrates the pores of concrete and masonry and reacts with calcium hydroxide to form insoluble calcium silicate, which matters on the coast, where salt and humidity drive moisture into structures; as an internal pipe-lining and corrosion inhibitor in water-distribution networks, where a silicate film stops iron dissolving into drinking water; as the binder in the carbon-dioxide process for foundry cores and moulds and in refractory mortars and castables; as the adhesive for corrugated board and paper tubes; as a lost-circulation and shut-off agent in drilling, where it gels on contact with calcium chloride brine or acid; in cement and soil grouting; and as an alkaline builder and anti-corrosion agent in powder and liquid detergents.

Handling and storage: the solution is strongly alkaline, so wear gloves and goggles and keep it off skin and aluminium, which it attacks. It gels when it meets acid, carbon dioxide or hard water, and skins over in open containers, so keep drums sealed, rinse pumps and lines with warm water after use, and never let it dry in equipment; it is not flammable and not regulated for transport. Each lot carries a certificate of analysis giving ratio, solids, density and viscosity, plus a GHS safety data sheet.

Delivery is same day within Muscat, next day to Sohar, Salalah and Duqm, and by road across the GCC with a certificate of origin. Request a quote with the ratio, solids, pack type and volume.