Sodium silicoaluminate is a chemical compound, a mineral compound consisting of sodium, silicon and aluminium.

The name defines the structure of the molecule

• Sodium indicates the presence of sodium ions in the compound.
• Silicoaluminate refers to the complex chemical structure of the compound, containing silicon, aluminum, oxygen, and sometimes other elements.

Description of raw materials used in production

Sodium Silicate: Source of sodium and silicon ions.

Aluminum Salts: Provide aluminum ions.

Water: Used in the synthesis and may remain as part of the compound's hydrated structure.

Step-by-step industrial chemical synthesis process

• Preparation of Raw Materials: Solutions of sodium silicate and aluminum salts are mixed.
• Formation of Sodium Silicoaluminate: The reaction between sodium silicate and aluminum salts forms a precipitate of sodium silicoaluminate.
• Filtration and Washing: The precipitate is filtered and washed to remove impurities.
• Drying: The compound is dried to remove excess water.
• Packaging: The finished product is packaged for sale as an anti-caking agent in various products, such as table salt.

What it is used for and where

Food

Ingredient included in the list of European food additives as E554 with an anti-caking function. Icing sugar, non-dairy creams and other dry powdered products may contain this ingredient.

Cosmetics

Abrasive agent. This ingredient contains abrasive particles to remove stains or biofilm that accumulate on the stratum corneum or teeth. Baking soda, kieselguhr, silica and many others have abrasive properties. Peeling or exfoliating products used in dermatology or cosmetic applications contain abrasive agents in the form of synthetic microspheres, however these microspheres or abrasive particles are not biodegradable and create pollution in aquatic ecosystems.

Bulking agent. It regulates the water content, dilutes other solids, can increase the volume of a product for better flow, acts as a buffer against organic acids, helps to keep the pH of the mixture within a certain level.

Viscosity control agent. It controls and adapts viscosity to the required level for optimal chemical and physical stability of the product and dosage in gels, suspensions, emulsions, solutions.

EC number: 215-684-8

CAS: 1344-00-9

Safety

Aluminium can interfere with different biological processes (cellular oxidative stress, calcium metabolism, etc.), so it can induce toxic effects in different organs and systems, and the nervous system is the main target of its toxicity.

Commercial applications

Food Industry: Used as an anticaking agent in powdered products such as salt, spices, and powdered milk.

Personal Care and Cosmetic Products: Used in products like face powders and powdered foundations to improve flow and prevent clumping.

Properties

Anticaking Agent: Prevents clumping in powdered products, enhancing flowability and manageability.

Absorbent: Can absorb moisture and oil, helping to maintain product stability.

Opacifying Agent: May be used as an opacifying agent in cosmetic products, providing a matte finish.