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Problems With Sodium Silicate Additives In Plumbing

COMMON PIPE PROBLEMS

Sodium Silicate Additives: A Health Hazard

Sodium silicate additives – commonly known as water glass – have long been promoted as a solution to combat corrosion and pinhole leaks in water piping systems. The Sodium Silicate is dripped into the water supply, and it is intended to bond to the interior walls of pipes in order to form a protective glass-like layer.  The theory is that sodium silicate’s negatively charged molecules bond with the positively charged metal ions in the pipes, creating the thin glass-like barrier that slows down the corrosion process. Below is a digram illustrating this process.

Diagram showing the introduction of sodium silicate additives into a plumbing system with copper pipes to combat corrosion and leaks.

Originally developed for industrial applications, sodium silicate found its way into plumbing systems as a cost-saving measure against corrosion. But despite its proposed benefits, the application of sodium silicate additives has created a controversy due to its significant health risks and long-term inefficiencies, which makes it a questionable choice for property owners. This process also requires ongoing maintenance, inspections, and regular adjustments in effort to promote the formation and longevity (if any) of a protective layer.

In this article, we will explore these health risks, long term inefficiencies, history, common failure reasons, signs of failure, and the importance of replacement.

History of Sodium Silicate Additives in Plumbing Systems

Sodium silicate was first synthesized by Johann Nepomuk von Fuchs in 1818 and initially used for preserving eggs and creating fire-resistant materials. Its application in plumbing systems didn’t emerge until the mid-20th century. In the 1940s, researchers explored the potential of sodium silicate as a corrosion inhibitor for metal surfaces. By the 1950s, sodium silicate had become popular in industries like water treatment and waste management as a cost-saving solution to extend the lifespan of metal pipes.

Crystals of sodium silicate in a glass-like state on a black background

The Occidental Chemical Corporation pioneered its use in plumbing systems during the 1960s and 1970s. This company has since released a safety data sheet (click here to view) warning of dangers such as “CAUSES SERIOUS EYE IRRITATION. CAUSES SKIN IRRITATION. HARMFUL IF SWALLOWED.” Despite its early promise, sodium silicate in plumbing systems revealed significant health risks and practical challenges. Over time, these issues led many in the plumbing industry and property owners to reconsider its use, opting for safer and more reliable alternatives.

Case Studies on the Health Implications of Sodium Silicate Additives In Plumbing Systems

The use of sodium silicate additives in plumbing systems has raised health concerns among property owners and industry professionals. Here are a few case studies:

· Occidental Chemical Corporation’s Safety Data Sheet: Sodium silicate is classified as causing serious eye and skin irritation and being harmful if swallowed. Protective measures include wearing gloves, clothing, eye and face protection, and avoiding inhalation or ingestion. Significant exposures require immediate medical attention due to the potential for severe health effects. View the safety data sheet here.

· Journal of Occupational Medicine Case Study: Workers exposed to sodium silicate reported persistent respiratory issues, including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. The study concluded that sodium silicate can cause acute and chronic respiratory problems, particularly when inhaled in mist or vapor form. View the study here.

· Environmental Health Perspectives Case Study: A community affected by sodium silicate contamination in their drinking water experienced gastrointestinal distress, skin rashes, and eye irritation. Laboratory tests confirmed elevated levels of sodium silicate in the water supply, highlighting the risks associated with its use in water systems. View the case study here.

· National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Study: Workers exposed to sodium silicate experienced respiratory issues similar to those reported in the Journal of Occupational Medicine, including coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. This reinforces the findings of significant respiratory risks. View the study here.

· Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) Guidelines: Emphasizes the need for protective measures to prevent skin contact and inhalation. Even low-level exposure can cause significant health issues over time, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. View the guidelines here.

Why Sodium Silicate Additives in Plumbing Often Fails

Despite its initial appeal, sodium silicate additives often fail for several critical reasons. Understanding these failure points is essential for those seeking reliable long-term plumbing solutions. Here are the primary causes of failure associated with sodium silicate additives:

· Short-Term Effectiveness: Sodium silicate provides only temporary corrosion resistance if implementation is effective. The protective layer degrades over time with changes in water chemistry or system conditions, causing system failures and requiring frequent reapplication. As the protective layer degrades, it also leaches into the water system and is consumed by tenants. Based on evidence we have presented above, we believe this is a major health hazard.

· Inconsistent Performance: Effectiveness varies widely depending on the type of piping, the condition of the inner walls, and water quality. Because of this results are inconsistent and unreliable. Property owners often pay for this service, and end up replacing their piping anyways because of their unsuccessful implementation of sodium silicate additives.

· Complex Implementation: Precise control and monitoring are required. Improper dosing or mixing can lead to uneven distribution, which reduces effectiveness and increases the risk of sodium silicate failure. By implementing sodium silicate into a plumbing system, property owners are choosing to swap one type of maintenance with another.

· Health and Safety Risks: Sodium silicate is corrosive and comes with significant health risks – including eye and skin irritation and harm if swallowed. This system should not be implemented in a plumbing system that carries potable water.

The Importance of Replacement

While once considered a promising solution for preventing pipe corrosion, sodium silicate additives have proven to be less effective and more problematic over time. Replacing these additives with safer and more reliable alternatives is crucial for several reasons. Here are the key factors that highlight the importance of replacing sodium silicate additives in plumbing systems:

· Health and Safety: As we have clarified, sodium silicate is a hazardous substance. The Occidental Chemical Corporation warns of the dangers that come with sodium silicate additives. Replumb Specialties Inc. will not implement this into plumbing systems, and we recommend replacement as a better alternative to our clients.

· Long-Term Reliability: Sodium silicate provides only temporary corrosion resistance. Over time, the protective layer can degrade, leading to frequent system failures. Replacing sodium silicate with more durable solutions such as PEX piping ensures long-term reliability and reduces the need for constant maintenance.

· Cost Efficiency: The initial costs and ongoing maintenance expenses associated with sodium silicate additives are considerably high for a temporary solution. Alternatives like a system replacement using PEX piping might be more expensive upfront, but offer long-lasting solutions and little to no system maintenance. Plus, it keeps the water supply healthy for residents.

· Environmental Impact: Sodium silicate can have negative environmental effects, especially if it leaks into the surrounding soil and water systems. Replacing it with environmentally friendly alternatives helps protect the ecosystem from potential contamination.

· Improved Water Quality: Sodium silicate can alter the taste and color of water, leading to complaints from residents. Replacing it with alternatives that do not affect water quality ensures a cleaner, safer water supply.

Replacing sodium silicate additives in plumbing systems is essential for ensuring health and safety, long-term reliability, cost efficiency, environmental protection, consistent performance, improved water quality, and legal compliance. By choosing safer and more effective alternatives, property owners can enhance the durability and safety of their plumbing infrastructure.

The Lesson of Sodium Silicate Additives In Plumbing

The effectiveness of sodium silicate as a corrosion inhibitor is often temporary and inconsistent, necessitating frequent reapplications and meticulous control during implementation. If not handled properly, this pipe sealant can be an extreme health hazard. Over time, these drawbacks have prompted many in the plumbing industry to seek safer and more reliable alternatives. The lessons from sodium silicate’s use underscore the importance of thorough research and consideration of long-term impacts when selecting materials for plumbing systems, prioritizing both human health and system reliability.

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