Silicon

Silicon is a semi-metal and has become famous as a semiconductor. It has the atomic number 14 in the periodic table of elements and the abbreviation Si. It is the second most common element on the earth's surface after oxygen. Silicon does not occur in nature as an element. It is contained in numerous inorganic minerals, such as quartz (sand), feldspar, mica and tourmaline. Around 90 % of the earth's crust consists of silicon compounds. In 1823, silicon was extracted from silicon tetrafluoride by the Swedish chemist Jöns Jakob Berzelius (1779 - 1848). Silicon is mainly used in semiconductor technology, as well as in solar panels and batteries. Glass is made from silicon compounds (quartz sand). It is also required as sand for every building. Silicon is also a main component of silicone, which contains the elements carbon and oxygen in addition to silicon. In the body, silicon is mainly stored in connective tissue and bones.

Deficiency symptoms

A silicon deficiency can lead to growth disorders and a number of skin diseases such as chronic eczema and itching (pruritus). Brittle nails and hair loss can also be symptoms of a silicon deficiency. More serious consequences may include reduced elasticity of certain parts of the blood vessel walls due to collagen deficiency and osteoporosis.

Requirements

The daily requirement is estimated at 40 milligrams per day. Silicon is mainly found in plant-based foods such as potatoes, a range of cereals, spinach and fruit.