LUDOX® SM

LUDOX® SM is an aqueous dispersion containing 30% synthetic amorphous colloidal silica with a particle size of 7 nanometers. It features one of the smallest particle sizes and highest surface area grades of the LUDOX® colloidal silica product line. 

The high surface area property of LUDOX® SM contributes to its view as one of the best colloidal silica binders for metal oxide and siliceous materials used in refractory and ceramic applications, where it increases the thermal, chemical, and mechanical durability of formed shapes.

LUDOX® SM can also be incorporated into latex paint and adhesive formulations, where the silica particles order themselves into the latex polymer matrix to improve the durability, scrub resistance, and dirt pickup resistance of the latex film. In addition, LUDOX® SM improves wetting and adhesion to difficult-to-bond surfaces.

The small particle size of the amorphous silica in LUDOX® SM makes it useful as a densifier in concrete densifier formulations. The small silica particles here can easily penetrate the porous surface of concrete to undergo a chemical reaction with calcium hydroxide in the cured concrete to form calcium silica hydrate. This increases the density and improves the hardness of the concrete.