Abstract: Silica-based hydrophobic granular material with an increased polarity Silica-based granular material, comprising silica and at least one IR-opacifier, hydrophobized with a surface treatment agent comprising a silicon atom, wherein the granular material has: a) a cumulative pore volume of pores>4 nm of more than 2.5 cm3/g, as determined by the mercury intrusion method according to DIN ISO 15901-1; b) a tamped density of 140 g/L to 290 g/L; c) a number of silanol groups relative to BET surface area dSiOH of at least 0.5 SiOH/nm2, as determined by reaction with lithium aluminium hydride. d) a number of silicon atoms in the surface treatment agent relative to BET surface area d[Si] of at least 1.0 [Si atoms]/nm2.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a thermal insulating composition, containing 5 to 60% by weight of a hydrophobized granular material comprising fumed silica and at least one IR-opacifier, and 40 to 95% by weight of an inorganic and/or an organic binder, whereby the hydrophobized granular material has a content of free hydroxyl groups of no greater than 0.12 mmol/g, as determined by the reaction with lithium aluminium hydride.

Abstract: A method for processing compositions, compositions obtained by such a process and methods of use are disclosed for forming a detachable and renewable protective coating which is substantially transparent. The inventive process compositions are produced by making a highly concentrated dispersion of hydrophobically modified silica particles in the presence of an optional, yet preferable, disilazane derivative under high shear conditions. These process compositions are intended to be further diluted to final treatment compositions, optionally while adding other functional ingredients.