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What is Silica Sand?

Silica Sand is typically a form of Silicon dioxide (SiO2), made up of two main elements - silica and oxygen.

The most common form of Silicon dioxide is quartz, which is a chemically inert and hard mineral, broke down into tiny granules over time through the wind and water called Silica Sand.

It is also known as White sand, Quartz sand and Industrial sand, that comes with a wide range of shades, mostly white or colourless. The colour of the sand depends chiefly on the rock detritus and a variety of minerals that make up the resource.

It is obtained by the quartz materials from the sources like beach dunes and processes them into different types and grades of sand, and then supplied to different industries for various applications.

Silica sand possesses some criteria that it must contain, at least 95% silicon dioxide and equal to 0.6 % iron oxide, if not it is considered as regular sand.

What makes Silica sand Different from Other Sands?

Other sands refer here to regular sand or normal construction sand, which are typically brown and used for concrete applications. These also contain some silica but up to only 80% along with other minerals like iron, potassium, carbonate and other trace elements.

Silica sand in construction

The presence of these minerals makes the sand regular and darker colour compared to silica sand. The normal sand (non-silica sand) available in various shades such as pink, black and green depends on the sand deposit on different geological places.

Uses of Silica Sand

Silica sand is valued for several useful properties. It owns high melting point and low thermal expansion coefficient, which makes it a good choice for applications that involve high-temperature exposures.

Here are some examples of silica sand uses in different sectors.

1. Glass

Silica sand is a primary component in the manufacturing of glass. It is a very important raw material for standard and special glasses. The chemical purity of silica sand is the principal determinant of strength, colour and clarity.

Silica in Glass Making

It is used to produce flat glass for building and automotive uses and for container glass that stores food and beverages. It reinforces glass fibres and required for the production of fibreglass insulation. It is applied in speciality glasses that include test tubes, scientific tools, television and CRT monitors, and also in incandescent and fluorescent lamps.

2. Sports Fields and Golf Courses

On synthetic sports fields and golf courses, silica sand is used for bunkers and greens. Because of its ability to support and natural plant growth, it is also used to maintain greens and fairways.