Silica gel is a moisture absorber that can effectively regulate relative humidity levels in the surrounding area. It’s a conventional and harmless desiccant used in various applications, such as medication bottles, food packaging, drying flowers, preventing mould in shoes, and electronics packaging, to adsorb moisture and water vapour. Effectively absorbing moisture and humidity helps reduce the chances of mould growth and food spoilage.
The desiccant is composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2), also found in quartz. It contains one silicon atom and two oxygen atoms. In 1919, a chemistry professor at John Hopkins University named Walter Patrick patented an acid that could process sodium silicate to create this desiccant. When dried, the substance transforms into a desiccant that effectively absorbs moisture in high-humidity environments.
Control Moisture and Prevent Mold Growth
Silica gel particles have microscopic pores that can absorb up to 40% of their weight and lower relative humidity (RH) by up to 40% in a sealed container. The desiccant pores attract water molecules, which stick to the surface of each gel granule, keeping moisture at bay.
Even when fully saturated, the silica bead granules stay dry thanks to capillary condensation. If the desiccant becomes saturated, it can be reused by heating it to 300ºF (150ºC) to remove moisture. We also offer silica gel packets manufactured in Singapore that contain up to 1000 grams of silica gel for long-term storage.
Our white non-indicating silica gel is odourless, tasteless, non-corrosive, and non-reactive to chemicals. The desiccant is safe for direct food packaging, as it is non-toxic and only absorbs moisture from enclosed spaces. Using a humidity indicator card, you can monitor the replacement needs of the desiccant to ensure its effectiveness over time.
Cost-Effective Solution for Moisture Control
For those requiring an indicating desiccant, we offer blue-indicating silica gel, which contains cobalt chloride that gives it a blue hue until it encounters moisture. The moisture absorber acts as an indicating desiccant, changing colour (usually pink or red) when it becomes saturated, indicating the need for replacement. The moisture absorber is suitable for use in transformer breathers or electronics.
Another option is our environmental gel, also known as orange-indicating desiccants, which contains a safe organic indicator called methyl-violet. As the desiccant absorbs moisture, its orange colour gradually transitions to green, signalling that it’s reaching full capacity and needs replacement or reactivation. These desiccants are non-toxic, non-corrosive, heavy-metal-free, and eco-friendly.
At Stream Peak, we supply our desiccants with an airtight protective container to ensure maximum protection and effectiveness. Please contact us for bulk quantities, custom sizes, or special requirements. Direct purchase is also available from our online store.
What is silica gel used for?
Desiccant packets are commonly found in electronics, shoes, and food items to prevent moisture damage.
Is it ok to touch silica gel?
Although generally safe to touch, ingesting or getting the desiccant in the eyes is not recommended. Extended contact with the skin may cause irritation or dryness, so washing hands thoroughly after handling it is essential. To avoid potential hazards, keep desiccants away from children and pets.
What is silica gel, and how does it work?
Silica gel is a desiccant that effectively absorbs moisture from the air. It comprises silicon dioxide, a natural compound found in rocks and minerals. The gel functions by attracting and trapping moisture molecules through adsorption. Due to the tiny, porous particles that make up the gel, it has a large surface area and can absorb significant amounts of moisture.
Does silica gel prevent mould?
Using a moisture absorber like silica gel can help prevent mould growth, as mould requires moisture to thrive. Using desiccant packets in areas prone to mould growth can reduce moisture levels and help avoid mould formation. However, it’s important to note that using a desiccant alone may not entirely prevent mould growth if other factors contribute to high moisture levels, such as leaks or poor ventilation. Therefore, drying agents and other mould prevention measures are recommended for the most effective results.
What happens if silica gel gets wet?
Once the desiccant gets wet, its effectiveness in absorbing moisture is compromised. The tiny, porous particles lose their ability to adsorb more moisture when saturated with water. It’s crucial to keep the desiccant dry before use and replace it promptly when it becomes saturated to maintain its moisture-absorbing properties.
How many days does silica gel last?
The lifespan of a desiccant depends on several factors, including the amount of moisture it absorbs, storage conditions, and gel quality. The gel can last up to two years if stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. However, if the desiccant is exposed to high humidity or moisture levels, it may lose effectiveness more quickly.
Should I wash my hands after touching the silica gel?
Although the moisture absorber is not toxic, washing hands thoroughly after handling it is recommended, especially for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies. Accidental ingestion of the desiccant may cause gastrointestinal distress.
- Grain shape: Sphere
- SiO2 content (%): 99 min
- Bulk density (g/ ml): 0.7 min
- Specific resistance (Ω • cm): 3000 min
- Loss on drying (wt%): 2.0 max
- Grain size: 2-4 mm beads
- Equilibrium capacity for water vapour (wt%) at 25 °C
- relative humidity 20%: 8 mins
- relative humidity 50%: 20 mins
- relative humidity 90%: 30 mins
White, Non-Indicating
- Tasteless
- Odourless
- Food-safe
- FDA compliant
- Non-toxic
- Non-corrosive
- Non-reactive (does not change colour when exposed to moisture) but appears hazy or milky when saturated
- Adsorb up to 40% of its weight in water
Blue-Indicating
- Odourless
- Non-corrosive
- Changes from blue to pink when saturated
- Non-dusting packing in Tyvek desiccant bags is available
- Works well for non-dusting packing for electronic equipment
- Adsorb up to 40% of its weight in water
Orange-Indicating
- Odourless
- Heavy metal-free
- Non-corrosive
- Environmentally friendly
- Changes from orange to green when saturated
- Adsorb up to 40% of its weight in water
Silica Gel Product Brochure: Download