INDUSTRIAL MINERALS · RHEOLOGY ADDITIVE
Fumed Silica
Rheology control for composite resins, gelcoats and bonding pastes.
Fumed silica is a fine synthetic amorphous silica used to modify the flow of liquid formulations. It is different from the silica sand used as a mineral raw material. VIP Global Co. supplies fumed silica through its commercial network, with selection based on the resin system and production requirements.
Fumed silica is commonly known in the local trade as Aerosil. AEROSIL is a trade name, rather than the generic name for all fumed silica. We can arrange supply of AEROSIL 200 through our commercial network; availability and the selected product specification are confirmed with each quotation.
Why Flow Control Matters
A formulation must flow during mixing and application while resisting unwanted movement afterwards. Suitable fumed silica can increase viscosity at rest and help develop thixotropic behaviour: the material becomes easier to move under shear and recovers structure after the shear is removed. Recovery and final viscosity depend on the selected silica, dispersion and complete formulation.
In suitable systems this can help reduce sagging on vertical surfaces and limit settling of pigments or fillers. These effects must be checked in production trials; fumed silica does not guarantee that every formulation will remain stable.
Selecting a Suitable Product
Fumed silica is available with different surface chemistry and surface area. Untreated hydrophilic products and surface-treated hydrophobic products can behave differently in a resin. Selection should consider resin polarity, moisture sensitivity, target viscosity, shear conditions and dispersion equipment. Products should not be substituted solely because their names or appearance are similar.
Request the technical data sheet for the actual product. Confirm surface treatment, relevant physical properties, recommended applications and quality requirements. No single addition rate is appropriate for every formulation.
Applications in Composites
- Viscosity and sag control in compatible polyester gelcoats and laminating resins.
- Rheology modification in selected vinyl ester and epoxy formulations.
- Bonding pastes, filling compounds and repair materials requiring controlled flow.
- Selected adhesives and sealants where suspension and application consistency are important.
Dispersion and Validation
Controlled dispersion is essential for consistent performance. Follow the selected product’s processing recommendations and introduce the powder using equipment suited to the formulation. Evaluate viscosity, sag resistance, filler suspension, air entrapment and cure response under representative conditions. Excessive thickening can make application and air removal more difficult.
Handling and Storage
Minimise airborne dust and review the Safety Data Sheet for ventilation and protective equipment. Keep the product dry, protected from contamination and in suitable closed packaging. Follow the selected product’s storage instructions.
Supply Through VIP Global Co.
We can arrange sourcing and shipment through our commercial partners in Iran or our representation in the United Arab Emirates. Share your resin type, application, required quantity and delivery destination. Where available, include your existing specification and target processing behaviour. Product availability, documentation, packaging and delivery terms are confirmed with each quotation.
