Silicic acid

Other names: Silicic acid

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Silicic acid, also known as silicic acid, is the name for a variety of chemical compounds containing silicon, hydrogen and oxygen. More specifically, it is the name given to several distinct silicic acids that are formed primarily by the reaction of silicates with acids. Pure silicic acid is a difficult substance to prepare and relatively unstable. Silicic acid hydroxides in particular are used in many industrial sectors.

Silicic acid is used in many products and industries. It is thus widely used, for example, in the construction industry, where it is used in concrete to improve its strength. In the food industry, silicic acid and its salts are used as food additives with the code E550, acting as anti-caking agents. They are also appreciated in the pharmaceutical industry where they are used as fillers and stabilizers in pharmaceuticals. In addition, silicic acid is used in the production of glass, ceramics, fertilizers and pesticides. Its use does not escape the cosmetics industry, where it is used as an ingredient in face masks, shampoos, conditioners, toothpastes and nail polish.