MicroSilica (Silica Fume)

Description

MicroSilica (Silica Fume)

MicroSilica (Silica Fume), is a byproduct of ferrosilicon production in electric arc furnaces. This ultra-fine, light gray powder contains 90-94% silicon dioxide (SiO₂) and serves as a highly active pozzolan for enhancing concrete properties.

Key Features & Benefits:

✔ High SiO₂ Content (90-94%) – Directly correlates with reactivity and performance in concrete.
✔ Low CaO Content – Results in a lighter-colored powder and improved pozzolanic activity.
✔ Meets International Standards – Optimized for high-performance concrete (HPC) applications.

Mechanism of Action in Concrete:

When added to concrete mixtures, microsilica’s active SiO₂ reacts with calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂)—a byproduct of cement hydration—to form secondary calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H gel). This process:

• Fills microvoids in the concrete matrix, reducing permeability.

• Enhances compressive strength through densification.

• Improves durability against corrosive agents (acids, alkalis, chlorides).

• Accelerates initial setting time while boosting long-term performance.

Proven Advantages:

✅ Lower Permeability – Ideal for marine, chemical, and infrastructure projects.
✅ Higher Strength – Upgraded mechanical properties vs. conventional concrete.
✅ Corrosion Resistance – Protects reinforcement in aggressive environments.

Technical Validation:

Our MicroSilica (Silica Fume) is backed by:

• Chemical analysis reports (showing SiO₂ ≥ 90%).

• Compressive strength tests (ASTM C1240, EN 13263).

• Durability certifications (chloride/sulfate resistance).

MicroSilica (Silica Fume)

Effects of Adding Microsilica (MicroSilica) on Fresh and Hardened Concrete

✅ Key Benefits of MicroSilica (Silica Fume) in Concrete

🔹 Enhanced Properties of Hardened Concrete:

✔ Increased Compressive Strength – Up to 30% higher than conventional concrete
✔ Improved Abrasion Resistance – Ideal for industrial flooring and pavements
✔ Reduced Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR) Risk – Prevents expansion-induced cracking
✔ Capillary Porosity Reduction → Lower Permeability + Superior Durability
✔ Extended Service Life – Up to 200 years in harsh environments

🔹 Optimized Fresh Concrete Performance:

✔ Accelerated Initial Setting Time without compromising final strength
✔ Denser Microstructure → Reduced Cracking Potential
✔ Reinforcement Protection by consuming free Calcium Hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂)

📌 Why Choose Microsilica?

• Compliant with ASTM C1240 & EN 13263

• Ideal for:

  • Marine Structures (chloride resistance)

  • Bridges/Tunnels (long-term durability)

  • Chemical Plants (acid attack resistance)

    MicroSilica (Silica Fume)

Key Applications of Microsilica-Enhanced Concrete

1️⃣ High-Strength Concrete Formulations

✔ Ultra-high compressive strength (60-150 MPa) for skyscrapers and heavy-load structures
✔ Denser particle packing through micro-filler effect

2️⃣ Low-Permeability Concrete

✔ Watertight construction for:

• Water reservoirs and containment structures

• Underground bunkers

• Swimming pool tanks
  ✔ <0.1% chloride penetration (ASTM C1202)

3️⃣ Mass Concrete Applications

✔ Reduced thermal cracking in:

• Dam constructions

• Bridge foundations

• Nuclear containment vessels

4️⃣ Hot Climate & Alkali-Prone Environments

✔ Delayed setting control in temperatures >35°C
✔ ASR mitigation in regions with:

• High-alkali cement

• Reactive aggregates

5️⃣ ASR/SSR Prevention

✔ “Concrete cancer” solution through:

• Alkali-binding capability

• Pozzolanic consumption of Ca(OH)₂

6️⃣ Geopolymer Cement Production

✔ Key precursor for:

• CO₂-reduced binders

• Acid-resistant formulations