Calcium silicate
Description
Any of the silicates of calcium. Calcium silicate occurs naturally in several minerals: Wollastonite, Diopside, Anorthite, lawsonite and Tremolite. Calcium silicates are used in the manufacture of Glass, Porcelain, molecular sieves, Wallboard, and Portland cement. Wollastonite is used as a bubble-free white opacifier in glazes. Calcium silicates are also used as fillers for paper and plastics. In general, they are highly absorbent.
Synonyms and Related Terms
tabular spar; calcium metasilicate; wollastonite; diopside; anorthite; tremolite; lawsonite; portland cement
Other Properties
Forms gel with acids. Insoluble in water but can absorb up to 6 times its weight of water.
| Composition | CaSiO3 |
|---|---|
| CAS | 1344-95-2 |
| Density | 2.9 |
Hazards and Safety
Inhalation of dust causes irritation.
Authority
- Richard S. Lewis, Hawley's Condensed Chemical Dictionary, Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York, 10th ed., 1993
- Susan E. Schur, Conservation Terminology: A review of Past & Current Nomenclature of Materials, Technology and Conservation, Spring (p.34-39); Summer (p.35-38); Fall (p.25-36), 1985
- The Merck Index, Martha Windholz (ed.), Merck Research Labs, Rahway NJ, 10th edition, 1983 Comment: entry 1749