2. Alkaline silicate solutions: definitions and reactivity parameters

Alkali silicate solutions are used in a variety of applications, such as ceramics, paints and detergents, as binders, deflocculants (agents that achieve maximum fluidity with minimum water content) or emulsifiers (agents that promote emulsion formation and stability). Their synthesis is based on the fusion of alkali carbonates or sulfates (M ₂ CO ₃ or M ₂ SO ₄ with M = Na or K) and sand (SiO ₂ ) at high temperature (1,300 to 1,500°C). Once the glass has been obtained, it is dissolved in an aqueous solution to obtain an alkali silicate solution depending on the molar composition of the glass. Alternatively, siliceous products can be etched under heat with concentrated...