Silicic Acid, Methyl Ester: Properties, Applications, and Manufacturing Process

INNO Specialty Chemicals is a leading manufacturer and supplier of silicic acid, methyl ester, also known as tetramethyl silicate or methyl silicate 51. This colorless, transparent liquid has a wide range of applications, from coatings and adhesives to catalysts and electronics. In this article, we will explore the properties, uses, and manufacturing process of silicic acid, methyl ester.

Properties of Silicic Acid, Methyl Ester

Silicic acid, methyl ester has a chemical formula of C4H12O4Si, and a molecular weight of 152.22 g/mol. It has a low viscosity and a high boiling point of 161-165°C, making it a useful solvent and binder in various applications. It is soluble in many organic solvents, such as methanol, ethanol, acetone, and toluene, but insoluble in water.

Silicic acid, methyl ester is also known for its ability to form a clear, hard, and durable film upon drying. This property makes it a popular ingredient in coatings and paints, especially for metal and concrete surfaces. It can also be used as a binder in adhesives, sealants, and composites.

Applications of Silicic Acid, Methyl Ester

Coatings and Paints: Silicic acid, methyl ester is widely used as a binder in coatings and paints for metal, concrete, and other surfaces. Its ability to form a clear, hard, and durable film makes it ideal for high-performance coatings, such as protective coatings for bridges, buildings, and offshore structures. It can also be used as a rust inhibitor and a water repellent in coatings.

Adhesives and Sealants: Silicic acid, methyl ester is a useful ingredient in adhesives and sealants due to its excellent adhesion, flexibility, and resistance to moisture and chemicals. It is commonly used in automotive adhesive applications, such as windshield bonding, and in electronic sealants, such as potting compounds and encapsulants.

Catalysts: Silicic acid, methyl ester can be used as a catalyst in various chemical reactions, such as transesterification, esterification, and polymerization. It can also be used as a co-catalyst in the synthesis of zeolites and other porous materials.

Electronics: Silicic acid, methyl ester is a key ingredient in the production of silicon dioxide films for electronic devices, such as LCD screens, solar cells, and semiconductors. It is also used as a precursor for the deposition of silicon dioxide films by chemical vapor deposition.

Manufacturing Process of Silicic Acid, Methyl Ester

Silicic acid, methyl ester is typically synthesized by the reaction of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) with methanol in the presence of a catalyst, such as hydrochloric acid or ammonia. The reaction produces silicic acid, methyl ester and ethanol as byproducts. The silicic acid, methyl ester product is then purified by distillation and filtration to remove impurities and excess reactants.

The manufacturing process of silicic acid, methyl ester involves several steps, including:

1. Preparation of the catalyst: Hydrochloric acid or ammonia is mixed with water to prepare the catalyst solution.

2. Reaction: Tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) and methanol are mixed in a reactor vessel, and the catalyst solution is added to initiate the reaction. The reaction is exothermic and generates heat, so cooling is required to maintain the temperature.

3. Separation: The reaction mixture is then separated into two layers, with the silicic acid, methyl ester product on the top layer and the ethanol byproduct on the bottom layer.

4. Purification: The silicic acid, methyl ester product is then purified by distillation and filtration to remove impurities and excess reactants. The final product is a clear, colorless liquid with a high purity level.

Conclusion

Silicic acid, methyl ester, or tetramethyl silicate, is a versatile chemical compound with a wide range of applications, from coatings and adhesives to catalysts and electronics. Its unique properties, such as its ability to form a clear, hard, and durable film, make it a popular ingredient in high-performance products. INNO Specialty Chemicals is a leading manufacturer and supplier of silicic acid, methyl ester, with a strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

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