SODIUM METASILICATE (METASILICATE) IN KENYA

Welcome to Industrial Materials Kenya, your trusted partner for high-quality industrial chemicals, adhesives, tapes, sealants and engineering materials in Kenya. With years of experience supporting manufacturers, contractors, workshops, cleaning companies, and industries, we supply only reliable and certified products—and one of the most in-demand industrial chemicals today is Sodium Metasilicate, commonly known as Metasilicate.

Whether you are searching for Sodium Metasilicate Pentahydrate, Anhydrous Metasilicate or technical-grade Metasilicate for detergents, degreasers, heavy-duty cleaning, water treatment, or industrial formulations, you are in the right place.

This comprehensive guide will help you understand everything about Metasilicate—its uses, grades, applications, benefits, packaging, pricing factors, and safety. Our goal is to ensure you make informed decisions when sourcing industrial chemicals in Kenya.

What is Sodium Metasilicate?

Sodium Metasilicate (Na₂SiO₃) is an alkaline powdered industrial chemical widely used in cleaning, detergent formulations, degreasing, water treatment, and industrial maintenance. It is highly soluble in water and forms a strong alkaline solution, making it one of the most versatile and effective building agents in cleaning and degreasing products. It is available in three common commercial forms:

Sodium Metasilicate Pentahydrate (Na₂SiO₃•5H₂O)
Sodium Metasilicate Anhydrous (Na₂SiO₃)
Sodium Metasilicate Nonahydrate (less common)

Each grade differs in alkalinity level and moisture content, but all provide strong cleaning and corrosion control properties.

Importance of sodium metasilicate in Industrial Applications

Metasilicate is one of the strongest alkaline builders and buffering agents in chemical formulations. It serves key functions such as:

Enhances cleaning and degreasing power
Stabilizes detergent formulations
Improves pH control
Removes heavy grease, oils, carbon deposits, and protein-based dirt
Softens hard water
Provides anti-corrosion protection on metals
Boosts surfactant efficiency

Because of these strengths, Sodium Metasilicate is widely used in:

detergent factories
cleaning companies
food processing plants
manufacturing industries
garages and workshops
water treatment plants
institutional cleaning

Grades of Sodium Metasilicate Supplied in Kenya

At Industrial Materials Kenya, we supply several grades suitable for different industrial needs:

A. Sodium Metasilicate Pentahydrate

White crystalline granules

Commonly used in detergents and degreasers
Moderate alkalinity
Easy to dissolve

B. Sodium Metasilicate Anhydrous

Fine powder, very strong alkalinity
Used in heavy-duty industrial cleaners
Fast dissolving
Stronger cleaning power compared to pentahydrate

C. Technical-Grade Metasilicate

For bulk manufacturing
Affordable and efficient
Suitable for detergent factories and large cleaning operations

Packaging Options

We provide Metasilicate in:

25 KG bags
50 KG bags (on order)
Bulk purchases for manufacturers

Industrial Uses of Sodium Metasilicate in Kenya

a.Detergent Manufacturing

Metasilicate is a major ingredient in:

powdered detergents
dishwashing powders
laundry detergents
institutional cleaning powders

It acts as a builder, water softener, and stain remover booster.

b. Heavy-Duty Industrial Cleaning

It is widely used in industries that need to remove stubborn stains, grease, and oil deposits including:

factories
garages
workshops
engineering plants

It breaks down oils and carbon residues effectively.

c. Degreasing Formulations

Most commercial and industrial degreasers in Kenya contain Sodium Metasilicate because of its ability to:

break down grease
emulsify oils
lift stubborn grime

It is used in:

engine degreasers
kitchen degreasers
mechanical part cleaners

d. Water Treatment

Sodium Metasilicate helps:

control corrosion
adjust pH
stabilize water treatment chemicals

It is commonly applied in boiler cleaning, cooling tower maintenance, and general industrial water treatment.

e. Metal Cleaning & Surface Preparation

Metasilicate removes:

rust stains
oil coatings
old grease
scale deposits

It prepares metal surfaces for painting, coating, or welding.

f. Food Processing & Institutional Cleaning

Due to its strong cleaning power, it is used to remove:

protein-based stains
fats
stubborn kitchen deposits

It is used in:

hotels
hospitals
food factories

g. Textile Industry

Used for:

scouring
degreasing fabrics
removing wax and oils during textile processing

h. Agriculture & Poultry Cleaning

It is used for:

cleaning animal houses
removing organic stains
disinfectant booster

Advantages of Sodium Metasilicate

Highly effective alkaline cleaner
Economical for large-scale cleaning
Dissolves heavy grease and stubborn dirt
Softens hard water
Enhances surfactant performance
Non-toxic when properly diluted
Protects metal surfaces from corrosion
Versatile across industries

How to Use Sodium Metasilicate (Application Guidelines)

While usage depends on your application, here are general guidelines:

For General Cleaning

Mix 1–3% solution in warm water
Apply using cloth, brush, or spray
Rinse thoroughly

For Heavy-Duty Degreasing

Mix 5–10% solution
Allow to soak
Scrub if necessary
Rinse well

For Detergent Manufacturing

Typical inclusion rate:

5–15% in powder detergents
Depends on surfactant concentration

Water Treatment

Add as required to adjust pH or control corrosion
Often used with other water treatment chemicals

Always follow safety guidelines when handling highly alkaline chemicals.

Safety Precautions When Handling Metasilicate

Because Metasilicate is highly alkaline, it should be handled carefully.

Wear Protective Gear

gloves
goggles
dust mask
protective clothing

Avoid Contact With Skin or Eyes

In case of contact:

Rinse with plenty of water
Seek medical attention if irritation persists

Use in a Well-Ventilated Area

To avoid inhaling dust.

Proper Storage

Keep in a cool, dry place
Store away from acids
Close bags after use

Why Choose Industrial Materials Kenya as Your Sodium Metasilicate Supplier?

. Trusted & Reliable Supplier in Kenya

We supply industrial chemicals to hundreds of clients—manufacturers, contractors, cleaning firms, and institutions.

2. High-Quality, Tested Products

Our Sodium Metasilicate is sourced from reputable producers and meets industrial-grade purity standards.

3. Affordable Wholesale Prices

We offer competitive and flexible pricing for both small and bulk purchasers.

4. Fast Deliveries Across Kenya

We deliver within Nairobi and arrange logistics countrywide.

5. Professional Customer Support

We guide customers on product selection, handling, safety, and application.

6. Wide Range of Industrial Chemicals

One-stop supplier for industrial materials, including:

Caustic soda
Soda ash
Sodium hypochlorite
Detergent chemicals
Acid cleaners
Adhesives and tapes
Tools and equipment

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

. What is Sodium Metasilicate used for?

It is used for cleaning, degreasing, detergent making, water treatment, and industrial maintenance.

2. Is Sodium Metasilicate the same as Caustic Soda?

No.

Caustic soda is sodium hydroxide.
Metasilicate is sodium silicate powder.
Both are alkaline, but they perform different functions in formulations.

3. Which grade is the best?

For detergents → Pentahydrate
For heavy-duty degreasing → Anhydrous

4. Is Sodium Metasilicate safe?

Yes when properly diluted, but always use protective gear when handling the powder.

5. How much does Metasilicate cost in Kenya?

Prices depend on grade, packaging, and quantity. Contact us for an updated quotation.

6. Do you deliver countrywide?

Yes, we deliver across Kenya.

7. Can I buy in bulk?

Yes, we supply both small packs and bulk orders for manufacturers.

8. Is Metasilicate good for water treatment?

Yes, it helps with pH adjustment and corrosion control.