Product: Aerosil 200
Rchem Aerosil® 200 is a high-purity, hydrophilic fumed silica, presented as a white, fluffy, nanoscale powder. This versatile synthetic amorphous silicon dioxide is produced in a flame hydrolysis process, resulting in an extremely high surface area and a three-dimensional branching chain structure. Renowned as one of the most effective rheology modifiers and thixotropic agents available, it is indispensable for controlling viscosity, preventing sagging, and suspending solids in a vast array of liquid systems.
Category: powder
Description
Key Features & Benefits:
● Excellent natural thickening agent with high viscosity at low concentrations
● Effective stabilizer for emulsions and suspensions in various formulations
● Clean-label ingredient suitable for organic and natural product formulations
● Improves texture and shelf life in food products
● Enhances viscosity and stability in cosmetic formulations
● Cost-effective alternative to synthetic thickeners and stabilizers
Technical Specifications Table:
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VEGAN SUITABLE
Chemical Formulae
Frequently Asked Questions:
How does Aerosil® 200 actually thicken liquids?
It thickens through the formation of a three-dimensional network. The tiny silica particles have surface silanol (Si-OH) groups that form hydrogen bonds with each other, creating a chain-like structure throughout the liquid. This network traps the liquid medium, dramatically increasing viscosity and providing yield value (resistance to flow until a certain stress is applied).
Thixotropy is a time-dependent shear-thinning property. A thixotropic material is viscous at rest (preventing sag and settling) but becomes thin and fluid when shaken, stirred, or brushed (for easy application). Once the shear force is removed, the material regains its viscosity over time.
What does "thixotropy" mean?
To achieve a lump-free dispersion: High-Shear Mixing: Use a high-shear mixer (like a disperser) and sprinkle the powder slowly into the vortex of the liquid. Pre-dispersion: Pre-mix the Aerosil with a non-solvent (like a portion of the liquid resin or a plasticizer) to form a paste before adding it to the main batch. Avoid Low-Shear Mixing: Simple stirring is insufficient and will lead to the formation of persistent "fish-eyes" or lumps.
What is the best way to incorporate Aerosil® 200 into a formulation to avoid lumps?
Hydrophilic Aerosil (like A200) has polar silanol groups on its surface, making it ideal for water-based and polar solvent systems. Hydrophobic Aerosil is surface-treated with silanes to make it water-repellent, making it ideal for non-polar systems (like silicone oils or epoxy resins) where moisture resistance is critical.
What is the difference between hydrophilic (e.g., A200) and hydrophobic Aerosil?
No, this is a critical distinction. Aerosil® 200 is amorphous silica, meaning its atoms are not arranged in a regular, crystalline pattern. It is chemically inert and safe for its intended uses. Crystalline silica (e.g., quartz), in its respirable dust form, is a known occupational health hazard. Aerosil is non-crystalline.
