Silica Fume
Silica fume, also known as microsilica, is a byproduct of silicon metal and ferrosilicon alloy production. It is an ultrafine powder with high SiO₂ content, used as a pozzolanic additive in high-performance concrete, refractory castables, and oil well cementing. Buyers need clarity on densified vs undensified form, SiO₂ content range, and bulk density before placing an order.
## Why buyers start here
Silica fume is one of the most cost-effective pozzolanic materials available for high-performance concrete and refractory applications. Its ultrafine particle size (average 0.1–0.5 μm) fills voids between cement particles, producing denser, stronger, and more durable concrete.
## Key specifications to verify
| Property | Typical Range | Why It Matters |
|----------|--------------|----------------|
| SiO₂ content | 85%–98% | Higher purity means stronger pozzolanic reactivity |
| Bulk density (undensified) | 200–350 kg/m³ | Affects transport cost and handling |
| Bulk density (densified) | 500–700 kg/m³ | Easier storage and lower shipping volume |
| Loss on ignition (LOI) | 1%–6% | Indicates carbon and moisture content |
| Average particle size | 0.1–0.5 μm | Determines reactivity and mixing behavior |
## Densified vs undensified forms
**Undensified silica fume** is collected directly from furnace exhaust gases. It has very low bulk density, which makes it expensive to transport but easy to disperse in mixes.
**Densified silica fume** is processed by compressing the undensified powder into small agglomerates. This increases bulk density by 2–3×, reducing shipping costs. However, it requires longer mixing times to break down agglomerates fully.
## Common applications
- **High-performance concrete**: Bridges, marine structures, high-rise buildings
- **Refractory castables**: Steel, glass, and ceramic kiln linings
- **Oil well cementing**: Thermal wells and corrosive environments
- **Shotcrete and gunite**: Tunnel linings, slope stabilization
- **Rubber and polymer fillers**: Enhanced mechanical properties
## What to clarify before inquiry
Share the target application, required SiO₂ content range, preferred form (densified or undensified), expected monthly volume, and any specific LOI or carbon content limits.
Buyer concerns
- SiO₂ content consistency
- Bulk density control
- Loss on ignition (LOI)
- Carbon content
Sourcing considerations
- Specify densified or undensified form
- Confirm SiO₂ content range (85–98%)
- Verify source: silicon metal vs ferrosilicon byproduct