Inhaling silicon dioxide as a dust can be extremely toxic to humans. Also, because it can also absorb a variety other compounds, there is a risk that it could have absorbed some other harmful unknown substances.ĭo not inhale it. However, it could present a choking hazard. Silicon dioxide itself is not necessarily harmful to humans in small quantities. Packets of silica gel will normally have DO NOT EAT, printed clearly on the packet. It is formed from the elements silicon and oxygen.ĭo not eat it. What we typically call ‘silica gel’, is a form of silicon dioxide, which has the chemical formula Si02. It can also absorb many different compounds, not just water, including ammonia, alcohols, aromatics as well as various other substances commonly used in manufacturing. It is effective at a wide range of temperatures, up to around 100 degrees celsius. There are various different types of desiccant, however silica gel is common because it can absorb a lot of moisture, often up to 40% of its weight. And that’s pretty much exactly what they do.
Cambridge Dictionary defines a desiccant as: a substance used to remove moisture. The substances contained in these little bags are referred to as desiccants.
Most of us throw them away, but have you ever wondered if they are safe, biodegradable or even reusable? What Does it Do? Furthermore, product specialists are available to answer questions at (520) 881-2130 or send a question.We’re sure that you have come across these small packets, often found in a box of new shoes. See AGM’s desiccant page for further information.įor information about choosing desiccants and how they work, please visit our Selecting the Right Desiccant page. In addition, silica gel and other desiccants are readily available through a number of suppliers. Silica gel packets and canisters can often be salvaged from many everyday purchases, such as shoes, wallets and purses, clothing, and even medication. However, desiccant will help: placing a packet or two of silica gel inside the casing will prevent condensation buildup. As a result, the moisture may cause condensation that will fog a camera lens. However, placing several desiccant packs per drawer in a tool box significantly reduces oxidation damage to tools, saving both time and money.Ĭamera casings, typically used for underwater photography, will trap residual moisture. Desiccators filled with indicating silica gel or packets of silica gel placed throughout a safe are ideal for achieving the recommended humidity range.įor tools occasionally exposed to the elements or stored in sheds susceptible to humid environments, oxidation is a common problem. Similar to storing books, it is generally recommended that firearms and munitions be stored in a 30 to 50 percent relative humidity environment while inside a gun safe. A step-by-step approach to flower drying using silica gel is available here. Traditionally, drying flowers can take weeks however, a batch of flowers can dry in as little as 2-6 days using silica gel. Although some consideration must be made for the humidity levels and temperature ranges of the storage environment, the LOC’s recommended humidity target can be readily achieved by placing bulk silica gel into the proper storage containers along with the books. The Library of Congress (LOC) states that relative humidity during storage for books should be about 35 percent. It is important to note that, for any storage duration, cardboard boxes are not adequate protection against moisture.
Silica gel can significantly reduce moisture damage done to books and hard-copy records during storage or transport. Contact a manufacturer before using desiccant with foods.
Please be aware that some desiccants, including some forms of silica gel, are hazardous, and therefore should not come into direct contact with consumables. Packages of silica gel or other desiccants can also be used to great effect in pantries or when drying foods for long-term storage. However, research has now concluded that using bulk silica gel is more effective than using rice.Īs silica gel is available in pouches and canisters, it can be placed with herbs and spices, or dried fruits and meats to prevent moisture damage. CELL PHONESĬell phones are frequent victims of water damage and for years the go-to method for drying out a cell phone has been placing it in uncooked rice. Often unconsidered, silica gel desiccant is a more effective drying agent than are many of the more frequently recommended solutions – such as uncooked rice – for saving wet cellphones, storing books and spices, and many other household uses.īELOW ARE 8 COMMON USES FOR SILICA GEL 1.
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