Silicon and its Chemical Properties, Its Role in Architecture and Construction (Essay Sample)

Silicon and its Chemical Properties, Its Role in Architecture and Construction
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Introduction
Silicon is a group four (IV) element with atomic number 14. Its chemical symbol is [Si] and it has a mass of 28.0855 gmol-1. Its electronic shell configuration is 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p2. Silicon is the seventh in the universe and second most abundant element in the earth’s crust after oxygen and it is the most abundant electropositive element in the earth’s crust. It is a metalloid usually tetravalent but sometimes it is bivalent. Silicon forms both hexacoordinated and pentacoordinated compounds that occur in both metals and non-metals. In nature, silicon does not occur as a free element but it is found in forms of oxide compounds for instance quartz, flint, sand and silicates in clays and rocks. The analysis of chemical properties of silicon reveals that, in architecture and construction industry, silicon has the ability to protect, strengthen, and preserve the buildings and construction work.
Body
The chemical properties of silicon are almost the same as those for metals. The electronegativity value of silicon according to Pauling’s scale is 1.8 (Sahoo, 2012). Silicon can form various covalent compounds as well as tetravalent ions. The reaction of silicon with air results in the formation of a protective layer of silicon on its surface. Silicon has some special chemistry as its crystals are insoluble in single concentrated or diluted acids. It is however dissolved in a mixture of hydrofluoric and nitric acids gradually resulting in the formation of its oxide compound which eventually lead to the formation of tetrafluoride. In concentrated basic solutions, crystalline silicon dissolves to form silicates and hydrogen gas. Silicon reacts with halogens at specific temperatures. At room temperature, silicon is attacked by fluorine and at a temperature of 300 Celsius it can react with chlorine. It acts as a reducing agent where it reduces most metal oxides in its molten state.[Silicon belongs to group four elements together with other elements such as carbon and germanium. It is more reactive than germanium. Silicon occurs mostly in silicates and it over 90% of the earth’s crust. Silicates are used in Portland cement for stucco and mortar as well as forming concrete when they are mixed with gravel and sand.]
One of the major roles of silicon in architecture and construction is protection of the buildings. Since it was discovered, silicon has been used in construction as glass, stones and concrete (Wolf & ASTM, 2006). More research on its chemical properties has widened its application in the architecture and construction industry. Silicon being inert at room temperature and the little effects of acids, water and steam on the element has found broad relevance of the element in architecture and construction. It has found great use in protecting modern constructions from environmental stress as well as weathering. Silicon can accomplish this role because it is extremely resistant to heat and moisture and its structure allow any trapped moisture to escape.[. Silicon and its products make modern buildings more energy sufficient through prevention of cold air or humidity penetrating through the cracks. It also reduces risks of buildings getting damages from small to medium scale earthquakes.]
Silicon also provides outstanding architectural design, strength and stability to the modern architectural and construction work. Its capability to form strong covalent bonds with other elements has been employed in architecture and construction industry to glue materials such as steel, concrete, glass and aluminum together. This leads to stable building that are strong enough and which can last long. In sites where massive construction is required, silicon chemical property of being more resistant to heat is employed. The silicon sealants and glazing are used in ma...