Silica Fume: High-Performance Additive for Concrete Strength and Durability

In high-performance concrete and advanced construction materials, кремний is one of the most effective additives available. Known for its ultra-fine particle size and pozzolanic properties, silica fume is used to boost compressive strength, improve durability, and enhance chemical resistance — making it a favorite in tunnels, bridges, high-rises, and industrial flooring.

Whether you’re sourcing bulk material for a ready-mix plant or browsing silica fume for sale for a specific job, understanding its benefits, uses, and current silica fume price is essential to making a smart, cost-effective purchase.

What Is Silica Fume?

Silica fume (also called microsilica) is a by-product of producing silicon metal or ferrosilicon alloys in electric arc furnaces. During the process, silicon oxide gas is produced and then condensed into an ultra-fine powder. This material is collected through a filtering system, resulting in amorphous silica with very high surface area and reactivity.

Key characteristics:

>90% SiO₂ content

Particle size: 100x smaller than cement (average ~0.1 μm)

Highly pozzolanic (reacts with calcium hydroxide in cement)

Dark gray in color

Specific surface area: 15,000–30,000 m²/kg

Silica fume is typically added to concrete at 5–10% of the cement weight to significantly improve performance.

Benefits of Using Silica Fume in Concrete

Higher Compressive Strength
Increases strength up to 25–50% by filling voids and forming more calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H).

Reduced Permeability
Minimizes water and chloride penetration — ideal for marine or bridge structures.

Improved Durability
Resists sulfate attack, alkali-silica reaction (ASR), and abrasion in harsh environments.

Better Bonding and Finish
Provides a denser matrix, resulting in smoother surfaces and improved bonding with rebar.

Environmental Advantage
Utilizes an industrial by-product, reducing waste and supporting greener construction practices.

Applications of Silica Fume

Silica fume is widely used in:

High-performance concrete (HPC)

Shotcrete for tunnels and underground structures

Precast and prestressed concrete elements

Bridge decks, parking garages, and marine structures

Industrial floors and warehouse slabs

Oil and gas well cementing

Its fine particle size allows it to improve not just strength but also durability, finish, and resistance to chemical attack — essential in critical infrastructure projects.

Forms and Packaging

Silica fume is available in:

Undensified form (~200–300 kg/m³ bulk density)

Densified form (~500–700 kg/m³ bulk density)

Slurry form (dispersion in water, easier to mix)

Packaging options include:

10–25 kg bags

500–1000 kg jumbo bags

Bulk silo delivery for large-scale projects

Most buyers choose densified silica fume for easier handling and transport.

Silica Fume Price Overview

The silica fume price depends on grade, form (densified or undensified), packaging, and quantity.

Factors affecting silica fume price:

SiO₂ purity and particle size

Shipping distance and customs duties

Packaging (bulk vs bagged)

Certification (ASTM C1240, EN 13263, etc.)

Supplier origin (China, India, Europe, USA)

For large buyers like ready-mix companies or precast factories, bulk orders and direct deals with manufacturers can lead to significant discounts.

How to Source Silica Fume for Sale

You can find silica fume for sale through:

Chemical Distributors

Stock domestic or imported silica fume

Quick delivery, smaller quantities available

Direct from Manufacturers

Best pricing for bulk and long-term supply

Brands in China, India, Norway, and UAE dominate the global supply

Construction Materials Suppliers

Local stocking for small batches

Can also include mix design consulting and support

Always request:

COA (Certificate of Analysis)

MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet)

Packing specs and delivery terms

Silica Fume Storage and Handling

Store in a dry, ventilated area — moisture affects reactivity

Use dust collectors or protective equipment during mixing

Ensure proper blending with cement to avoid clumping

For slurry form: mix before use and avoid long storage without stirring

Silica Fume FAQs

Q1: What is the recommended dosage of silica fume in concrete?

A: Typically 5–10% of the cement weight. Higher percentages may require water reducers or superplasticizers.

Q2: Is silica fume the same as fly ash?

A: No. Both are pozzolans, but silica fume is much finer and more reactive, providing higher strength and lower permeability.

Q3: Does silica fume affect workability?

A: Yes. It reduces slump, so a superplasticizer is usually needed to maintain workability.

Q4: Is silica fume hazardous?

A: It is not classified as hazardous but does produce fine dust. Use proper PPE during handling.

Q5: Can I buy silica fume in small quantities?

A: Yes. Many suppliers offer 10–25 kg bags or samples for lab use or small projects.

Whether you're building a high-rise, casting precast elements, or lining a tunnel, кремний offers real performance benefits that go far beyond traditional concrete mixes. From strength to durability to finish quality, it's an upgrade worth the investment.

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