Precipitated Silica Production

Report Abstract

This report presents the economics of Precipitated Silica production from a sodium silicate solution and sulfuric acid in the United States. In the process, the sodium silicate solution is treated with sulfuric acid. The solution is precipitated, filtered, washed, and dried, producing Precipitated Silica.

The report provides a comprehensive study of Silicon Dioxide production and related Silicon Dioxide production cost, covering three key aspects: a complete description of the Silicon Dioxide production process examined; an in-depth analysis of the related Silicon Dioxide plant capital cost (Capex); and an evaluation of the respective Silicon Dioxide plant operating costs (Opex).

The Silicon Dioxide production process description includes a block flow diagram (BFD), an overview of the industrial site installations, detailing both the process unit and the necessary infrastructure, process consumption figures and comprehensive process flow diagrams (PFD). The Silicon Dioxide plant capital cost analysis breaks down the Capex by plant cost (i.e., ISBL, OSBL and Contingency); owner's cost; working capital; and costs incurred during industrial plant commissioning and start-up. The Silicon Dioxide plant operating costs analysis covers operating expenses, including variable costs like raw materials and utilities, and fixed costs such as maintenance, labor, and depreciation.