What is Silicium?

“Silicium” is another word for “silicon”, which is a chemical element with the symbol Si and atomic number 14. It is a hard, brittle crystalline solid with a blue-grey metallic lustre, and is a tetravalent metalloid and semiconductor.

Silicium in stone fabrication

In the context of stone fabrication, silicon dioxide (SiO2), which is commonly found in quartz, is an important component of the material used to create quartz composite stone.

Quartz composite stone is made by combining natural quartz mineral (typically 90-95% by weight) with a binder such as polyester resin (typically 5-10% by weight) to create a homogeneous material that can be shaped into slabs and other forms for use as kitchen and bathroom worktops, wall cladding, and flooring.

To make the quartz composite, the natural quartz mineral is crushed and mixed with the binder, which contains silicon as a key component. The mixture is then heated to high temperatures and compressed under pressure to form a solid slab. During this process, the silicon in the binder acts as a binding agent, holding the quartz particles together and creating a durable and non-porous material that is resistant to heat, stains, and scratches.

The resulting quartz composite slab can then be polished, cut, and shaped to create custom worktops and other applications for use in residential and commercial settings.

Silicium in other industries

Silicon (often referred to as “silicium” in some countries) is widely used in a variety of manufacturing processes due to its unique properties. Here are a few examples of other manufacturing processes where silicon is used:

1. Semiconductor manufacturing: Silicon is a key component in the production of computer chips and other electronic devices. In this process, extremely pure silicon crystals are grown and then cut into thin wafers, which are used as the basis for creating electronic circuits.
2. Solar panel manufacturing: Silicon is also a key component in the production of solar panels. In this process, thin slices of highly purified silicon are used to create solar cells, which are then assembled into panels for use in solar energy systems.
3. Glass manufacturing: Silicon is used as a key ingredient in the production of glass. Silicon dioxide (SiO2) is a major component of most types of glass and is usually derived from sand or quartz.
4. Chemical manufacturing: Silicon is used in the production of a variety of chemicals, including silicones, which are used in a range of applications such as lubricants, adhesives, and coatings.
5. Construction materials: Silicon-based materials such as silicone sealants and adhesives are used in the construction industry for sealing and bonding applications.

These are just a few examples of the many different manufacturing processes where silicon is used.

General Silicium Info

• Silicium (also known as silicon) is a chemical element with the symbol Si and atomic number 14. It is a metalloid, meaning it has properties of both metals and nonmetals.
• Silicium is the second most abundant element in the Earth’s crust, after oxygen. It is found in many minerals, including quartz, feldspar, and mica.
• Silicium is widely used in many different industries, including electronics, solar power, construction, and chemical manufacturing, due to its unique properties. It is a semiconductor, meaning it can conduct electricity under certain conditions and is also resistant to high temperatures and chemical reactions.
• Silicium is also an important nutrient for many living organisms, including humans. It is found in many foods, including grains, vegetables, and meats, and is important for maintaining healthy bones, skin, and hair.
• While silicium is generally considered safe for humans and the environment, exposure to high levels of airborne silicon dust in industrial settings can pose health risks, including lung damage and respiratory diseases.

Hope that helps!