Uses and Specifications of Silica Sand

The chemical, physical and mineralogical specifications of many industrial sand products are outlined in this report. Most of the specifications concern high purity silica sand used as a raw material for the manufacture of glass, silicon carbide, and soluble silicates for the chemical industry, and for moulding sand, hydraulic fracturing sand, and filter sand. Quality requirements for sand of lesser purity used for special purposes such as sandblasting, abrasives, and building products also are given. The specifications were obtained from consultants, plant operators, and sand producers across Canada, and from published works on the subject.