Silicon combines with oxygen and takes the form of sand.
Silicon is an abundant non-metallic element found throughout the universe. Along with its various compounds, it is used in a wide variety of industrial applications including metal alloys, circuits, soaps, and glass. It is probably best known for its use in computer chips, and lent its name to Silicon Valley, home of the tech industry in the United States.
Perhaps the best known application of silicon is for computer chips.
This element was first isolated in 1824 by a Swedish chemist named Jons Jacob Berzelius. In pure form, it has a crystalline structure and occupies the 14th place in the periodic table, where it is written as Si. Silicon most commonly appears in the form of a compound such as silica (SiO2), where it combines with oxygen, usually taking the form of sand. The compounds can be treated to release bound silicon or used as is to take advantage of the unique properties of the compound. Silicon carbide (SiC), for example, has a hardness that rivals diamond.
Silicon is used in a variety of applications, from solar panels to soap.
When silicon is mixed with other elements, the compound is often referred to as a silicate. Silicates are extremely abundant and are used in a wide variety of industrial processes. They can be heated or treated with other chemical compounds to release their silicon or to bond with other materials for various purposes. When bonded to metal, this element increases the strength and hardness of the metal. Most industries use silicates in their products to make them stronger and more durable. The element is also commonly used as a base material for sealants, putties, and some types of synthetic oils.
Silicone is used in many applications, such as the manufacture of baking sheets.
Some consumers confuse the pure element with silicone, which is a chemical compound. Silicone contains silicon and takes advantage of many of its mineral properties. The compound is used in soaps and medical implants, insulation, and synthetic materials. Non-stick cooking materials, sealants and protectors for electrical components are also made from silicone, which is very durable and flexible.
Silicon ranks 14th on the periodic table.
Silicon’s abundance and myriad uses make it a commonly harvested element. Production is counted in the hundreds of tons worldwide, with countries like China and the United States making up the majority. The element is exported pure for manufacture and is also sold as commercial finished products. Manufacturers are constantly looking for new uses for this abundant and inexpensive element, and sales growth is expected to continue indefinitely.