Precipitated and nano-structured silica, as one of the most widely used minerals in various industries, plays a significant role in the global economy. Due to its unique properties such as high specific surface area, porosity, and chemical stability, it is widely used in various industries including rubber and tires, paints and coatings, catalysts, toothpaste, cement and concrete, and adhesives.
Importance of Silica Production
- Strengthening the manufacturing sector: Developing the silica production industry strengthens the manufacturing sector in any country and leads to the creation of a value-added chain in this sector.
- Innovation and technological development: Investing in silica production can lead to the development of new technologies in the fields of silica extraction, processing, and applications.
- Environmental conservation: Sustainable silica production can reduce environmental impacts and increase the sustainability of various industries.
- Job creation: Developing the silica production industry can create jobs in different regions of the country.
- Reducing dependence on imports: Domestic silica production helps a country to become less dependent on imports and increases the security of raw material supply.
Silica Applications in Various Industries and Comparison with Canada
- Rubber and tires: Silica is used in the production of high-performance tires, especially automotive tires, to improve grip, wear resistance, and reduce rolling resistance. In Canada, the automotive industry is one of the largest consumers of silica.
- Paints and coatings: Silica is used as a filler and matting agent in paints and coatings to improve the mechanical, chemical, and visual properties of products. The construction industry in Canada is one of the large markets for silica-containing paint and coating products.
- Catalysts: Silica is used as a catalyst carrier in many chemical reactions. The petrochemical and pharmaceutical industries in Canada use silica as a catalyst.
- Toothpaste: Silica is used in toothpaste due to its mild abrasive properties to clean teeth. The health and beauty products industry in Canada is one of the consumers of silica in this area.
- Cement and concrete: Silica is added to cement and concrete to improve mechanical properties, durability, and resistance to environmental factors. The construction industry in Canada is one of the largest consumers of silica in this area.
- Adhesives: Silica is used as a filler and reinforcing agent in the production of various adhesives. The construction and packaging industries in Canada use silica-containing adhesives.
Comparison with Canada
Canada, as one of the leading countries in the mining and processing of minerals, plays a significant role in silica production. However, a significant portion of the silica required by Canadian industries is supplied through imports. In recent years, significant investments have been made in domestic silica production in Canada to reduce dependence on imports and create jobs.
Importance of domestic silica production in Canada:
- Reducing dependence on imports: Domestic silica production helps Canada become less dependent on imports and increases the security of raw material supply.
- Job creation: Developing the silica production industry can create jobs in different regions of Canada.
- Increasing added value: Producing high value-added products such as nano-structured silica can increase Canada’s national income.
In general, precipitated and nano-structured silica is a strategic mineral that plays a significant role in the global economy and in Canada. Given the importance of this material, investing in domestic silica production and developing related technologies is of particular importance.