Based on the provided reference, the primary difference highlighted is that silica sand contains additional substances like salt, silt, clay, dust, and various powders, which are removed in washed sand.
Understanding Sand Composition
Sand itself is a granular material composed of finely divided rock and mineral particles. Its composition varies greatly depending on the source rock and local conditions. Common components include quartz, feldspar, mica, and sometimes organic matter.
What is Silica Sand?
According to the reference, silica sand consists of fine pieces of quartz and other minerals such as salt, silt, clay, dust and various powders. Quartz (silicon dioxide, SiO₂) is the dominant component in silica sand, typically making up a significant percentage. However, as the reference states, it often contains these extra materials. This composition makes it distinct from sand types where other minerals are more prevalent or where these finer impurities have been removed.
The Washing Process
The reference mentions "washed sand", explaining that it goes through a cleaning or “washing” process that removes these additional substances. This suggests that the difference between the initial composition of silica sand (as described with impurities) and a purified sand lies in this washing step.
Key Difference Based on the Reference
While the term "sand" can be broad, the reference defines "silica sand" as containing quartz plus specific impurities. It then describes "washed sand" as having these impurities removed. Therefore, the core distinction drawn by the text is the presence of non-quartz contaminants in silica sand versus their absence in washed sand.
Here's a simplified comparison based only on the information provided:
| Feature | Silica Sand (as described) | Washed Sand (from silica sand) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Component | Fine pieces of quartz | Fine pieces of quartz |
| Additional Substances | Includes salt, silt, clay, dust, various powders | These substances are removed |
| Processing | Often in its natural or minimally processed state | Undergoes a washing process to remove impurities |
This washing process improves the purity of the sand, which is crucial for specific industrial applications.
Practical Insight
The presence or absence of these "additional substances" significantly impacts how the sand behaves and what it can be used for. Impurities can affect properties like:
- Color: Clay and other minerals can change the sand's color.
- Purity: Crucial for uses like glassmaking, filtration, or specific construction applications where contaminants are undesirable.
- Particle Size Distribution: Fine silts and clays can alter the overall grading of the sand.
By washing, these variables are controlled, resulting in a more consistent and higher-purity product suitable for demanding uses.
