Production of finely divided particulate siliceous material by decomposition of alkali metal silicate with sulfitic species

Production of siliceous precipitates, for example sodium aluminosilicates by decomposition of an alkali metal sulfite solution with a solution of a sulfitic species such as sulfur dioxide, sulfurous acid or a salt thereof. Precipitates having excellent properties are obtained and the co-produced aqueous phase is a solution of alkali metal sulfite which has utility in pulp and paper mills. The process is advantageously carried out in proximity to a pulp and paper making operation wherein the siliceous precipitate may be used as a paper making filler and the alkali metal sulfite solution may be used in the pulping process.