Information

Silicon Dioxide SiO2 is a crystalline compound that occurs naturally in the earth's crust. It can be obtained from mining and purifying quarts.

It is also present in some living organisms and animals, the human body (it is a building block of ligaments, cartilage and muscle tissue in the body), and some plants (especially grains) and drinking water.

Plus, it's manufactured in a lab and used as a common food additive, found in things like baking ingredients, protein powders, and dried spices. The compound has a variety of uses in industries ranging from food and cosmetics to construction and electronics.

Silicon Dioxide SiO2 comes in various forms depending on how it is manufactured, including:

Crystalline Silicon Dioxide SiO2, usually obtained from mined quartz. Quartz actually makes up a large percentage of the earth's crust, so this type of product is widely used. This is not the form used in food and may be problematic when inhaled for prolonged periods of time.

Amorphous Silicon Dioxide SiO2, present in the earth's sediments and rocks. This also forms diatomaceous earth, diatom Silicon Dioxide SiO2, or diatomaceous earth, which is made from sediments that accumulate over time in the sediments of rivers, streams, lakes, and oceans. This is the type most often used as an anti-caking agent to keep powdered foods free-flowing and prevent moisture absorption.

Colloidal Silicon Dioxide SiO2 for tablet manufacturing. This type is found in supplements because of its anti-caking, adsorbent, disintegrant, and glidant properties.