Rate of Polymerisation of Silicic Acid and the Effect of Organic Solvents on it

The gelation of silicic acid molecules in aqueous medium is a third-order condensation polymerisation process within the pH range 2.31 to 2.56. The time of gelation increases with the addition of organic solvents, viz., ethanol and glycol. A quantitative explanation has been furnished on the basis of formation of complex between slick acid and organic solvents added.