Sodium Metasilicate Pentahydrate, commonly abbreviated as SMS Penta, is a ionic chemical compound and the main component of commercial sodium silicate solutions. It is a colorless solid that is crystalline in form. SMS Penta is both hygroscopic and deliquescent in nature and is soluble in water, but not in alcohols. When used with surfactants, Sodium Metasilicate Penta enhances the suspension of removed soils such as grease and dirt deposits and prevents reaccumulation. For this reason, it's commonly used in manufacturing high-efficiency in soaps, detergents, and metal cleaners.