Definitions

1. noun

A white or colorless crystalline compound used as an abrasive and found in quartz, flint, and many minerals.

“The sandpaper contained silica particles, which were effective at smoothing the surface.”

2. noun

A compound used in the manufacture of glass, ceramics, and concrete.

“The silica used in the factory was sourced from a local mine.”

3. noun

A compound used in toothpaste as an abrasive to remove plaque and stains from teeth.

“The toothpaste contained silica to help clean the teeth.”

4. noun

A compound found naturally in the body, such as in bones and teeth.

“Silica is a component of connective tissue in the human body.”

5. noun

A compound that can cause silicosis, a lung disease, when inhaled.

“The silica dust from the construction site was hazardous to the workers’ health.”

6. verb

To add silica to something, especially a material, to improve its strength or durability.

“The manufacturer silica-treated the concrete to make it more resistant to wear.”

7. verb

To remove or reduce the amount of silica from something, especially a material.

“The process silica-removed the impurities from the glass.”