Micro Silica for Concrete and Industrial Projects

Micro Silica, also commonly referred to as silica fume, is an amorphous form of silicon dioxide (SiO₂). It is a by-product collected from the exhaust gases of electric arc furnaces used in the production of silicon metal or ferrosilicon alloys. The particles are extremely fine—about 100 times smaller than average cement particles—typically less than 1 micron in diameter.

Despite being a byproduct, Micro Silica is considered one of the most effective pozzolanic materials in concrete. When added to cementitious mixtures, it significantly enhances strength, impermeability, and durability.

Other Names for Micro Silica

Micro Silica is known by several names across industries and regions:

• Silica Flour

• Silica Fume

• Condensed Silica Fume

• Ultrafine Silica

• Amorphous Silica

• Microsilica Powder

These names may be used interchangeably, depending on local standards or supplier terminology, but they all refer to the same ultrafine, reactive silicon dioxide material.

Physical and Chemical Properties

Micro Silica offers an extremely fine particle size and a remarkably high surface area. Therefore, it effectively fills microscopic voids in cement paste. Additionally, it reacts directly with calcium hydroxide to produce more calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H). As a result, this chemical reaction significantly enhances the strength and durability of the concrete.

Key Properties of Silica Flour:

Major Applications

Due to its unique properties, Silica Flour finds use in several high-performance applications across various industries.

1. High-Performance Concrete (HPC)

The primary and most widespread application of Micro Silica is in concrete. When added to cement (typically 5–15% by weight of cement), it improves:

• Compressive strength

• Abrasion resistance

• Water impermeability

• Chemical resistance

• Freeze-thaw durability

Micro Silica is especially favored in infrastructure projects like:

• Bridges

• Dams

• Marine structures

• Industrial floors

• Tunnel linings

2. Refractory Materials

In the refractory industry, Micro Silica is used in castables, gunning materials, and ramming mixes to improve density and reduce porosity. Its fine particle size and pozzolanic reaction enhance high-temperature resistance and structural stability.

3. Oil and Gas Industry

For oil well cementing, Micro Silica plays a crucial role. It reduces permeability and improves thermal stability, especially in wells exposed to high pressures and temperatures.

4. Fiber Cement and Precast Elements

Precast manufacturers and fiber cement producers add Micro Silica to increase strength, reduce drying shrinkage, and enhance surface smoothness in products like:

• Precast pipes

• Panels

• Pavers

• Roofing sheets

5. Chemical and Abrasion Resistant Structures

Thanks to its densifying and sealing effect, Micro Silica enhances the construction of storage tanks, sewage treatment plants, and chemical processing units. Moreover, it provides excellent resistance against acids and harsh chemicals in these demanding environments. Consequently, engineers frequently select it for projects that require long-term durability and protection.

6. Industrial Coatings and Grouts

Silica Flour increases the bond strength and resilience of epoxy grouts, tile adhesives, and industrial coatings. In addition, it improves surface hardness and extends the service life of flooring systems. Therefore, contractors prefer it for tiling, industrial flooring, and other high-performance applications.

Advantages of Using Micro Silica in Construction

When used correctly, This Product dramatically improves the mechanical and durability properties of concrete and other composite materials. Here are the key benefits:

a) Higher Strength

Due to the formation of additional C-S-H gel, Micro Silica significantly increases early and final compressive strength.

b) Lower Permeability

The ultrafine particles fill capillary voids in concrete, making it less permeable to water and chemicals—ideal for marine and sewer structures.

c) Increased Durability

Structures with Silica Flour show greater resistance to sulfate attack, chloride ingress, alkali-silica reaction (ASR), and carbonation.

d) Reduced Cracking

It helps in minimizing bleeding and plastic shrinkage cracking due to better particle packing and water retention.

e) Eco-Friendly

Since Micro Silica is an industrial byproduct, using it in construction helps reduce industrial waste and improves the sustainability profile of buildings.

How to Use Silica Flour in Concrete

Micro Silica can be added to concrete in two forms:

1. As a powder – typically pre-blended with cement or added during batching.

2. As a slurry – mixed with water and then added to the concrete mix.

The recommended dosage is usually between 5% to 15% by weight of cement. The exact amount depends on the desired performance and application. When using Micro Silica, water-reducing admixtures (superplasticizers) are often required due to its high surface area which increases water demand.

Packaging and Storage

Micro Silica is typically available in:

• 25 kg multi-wall paper bags

• 500–1000 kg jumbo bags

For best results, Micro Silica should be stored in dry conditions to prevent moisture absorption and clumping.

Industries That Benefit from Micro Silica

Let’s take a closer look at which industries benefit the most from Micro Silica:

Micro Silica vs Silica Fume: Is There a Difference?

Many people ask whether Micro Silica and Silica Fume are the same. Technically, yes—they both refer to the same material. However, some suppliers may distinguish between them based on their form:

• Silica Fume often refers to the by-product before processing.

• Micro Silica typically denotes the collected and packaged, ready-to-use product.

Both terms are widely accepted in industry standards, including ASTM C1240 and EN 13263.

Standards and Compliance

When sourcing Silica Flour, it’s important to ensure it meets relevant standards for quality and safety. Reputable suppliers provide:

• Technical Data Sheets (TDS)

• Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

• Certificates of Analysis (COA)

For construction use, compliance with ASTM C1240, BS EN 13263, and local building codes is essential.

Why Choose Basekim as Your Micro Silica Supplier?

At Basekim, we supply high-purity Micro Silica tailored to meet the specific needs of construction, oil & gas, and refractory industries across Dubai, the Middle East, and international markets.

Our Competitive Advantages:

• Consistent Quality: SiO₂ content of 92–98% for high reactivity

• Bulk Availability: From small projects to large infrastructure jobs

• Flexible Packaging: Powder and slurry forms available

• Expert Support: Our technical team guides proper usage and dosage

• On-Time Delivery: We serve clients across the GCC, Asia, and Africa

Our clients trust us because we understand the technical demands of modern construction and provide materials that meet international standards.

Final Thoughts

As one of the most efficient pozzolanic materials available, Micro Silica is transforming the way engineers and builders approach durability and performance. Its ability to enhance strength, reduce permeability, and increase chemical resistance makes it an irreplaceable additive in today’s demanding construction environment.

Whether you are working on marine structures, high-rise buildings, or industrial flooring, using Silica Flour ensures long-lasting, high-performance results. Basekim is proud to be a reliable Micro Silica supplier committed to quality, compliance, and customer satisfaction.