Adding fumed silica to paints and coatings improves their rheological regulation while preventing rust and corrosion. A variety of markets — namely furniture and automotives — are driving growth in this sector.

This makes the material particularly useful for industrial construction applications, for which there is a significant demand.

Incorporating fumed silica into silicone rubbers reinforces the material’s tensile strength and resistance to tears and abrasions. Silicone rubbers are prevalent in a number of critical industries, including portable electronics, medical technology, and aerospace manufacturing, in addition to others.

Synthesizing fumed silica into pharmaceuticals enables the manipulation of drug dissolution rates. Poorly soluble medications can have their activation timeline sped up, whereas others can be slowed down to allow for controlled drug releases.

Adding fumed silica to liquid cosmetics improves their overall rheological control. For powdered applications, the material creates a soft-focus and matting effect. These contrasting properties make fumed silica ubiquitous in beauty products.

Gelling a battery electrolyte with fumed silica — a thickening agent — significantly improves battery longevity on account of it preventing acid stratification. This makes fumed silica highly suitable for renewable energy and battery storage applications.

Adding fumed silica to unsaturated polyester resins regulates the material’s viscosity and thixotropy in addition to preventing solids from settling accidentally.

HPQ’s market opportunity in fumed silica may be concentrated in just a few industries, but the material can still be found in other sectors, including toiletries, printing inks, beverages, and foodstuffs.