What is colloidal silica?

Colloidal silica refers to very small particles of silica that are suspended in a liquid, typically water. These particles are usually in the nanometer size range and are not large enough to settle out of the liquid due to gravity or to be effectively removed by standard filtration methods. The behavior of colloidal silica is influenced by factors such as pH and the presence of other ions in the solution, making it a critical topic in various fields, including water treatment, as it can affect the clarity and stability of the water.

The key characteristic of colloidal silica is its ability to remain dispersed in a liquid without settling, which distinguishes it from larger particles that can be filtered out or sedimented. Understanding colloidal systems is crucial, particularly in power engineering contexts where water quality can impact system efficiency and performance.