The present invention refers to a process for the production of paper from
a suspension containing cellulosic fibers, and optionally fillers,
comprising adding to the suspension at least one cationic organic polymer
and an aqueous silica-containing composition comprising an anionic
naphthalene sulphonate formaldehyde condensate and anionic silica-based
particles, the composition having a weight ratio of naphthalene
sulphonate formaldehyde condensate to silica-based particles within the
range of from 0.2:1 to 99:1, and containing naphthalene sulphonate
formaldehyde condensate and silica-based particles in an amount of at
least 0.01% by weight, based on the total weight of the aqueous
silica-containing composition, and with the proviso that the composition
contains substantially no cellulose-reactive sizing agent. The invention
also encompasses an aqueous silica-containing composition and a method
for preparation of an aqueous silica-containing compound.