Silica Gel Absorption Rate Vs. Temperature

Silica gel packages are used as a desiccant in many products from shoes to medications to food. It is highly absorbent, non-toxic and inexpensive.

Silica can hold approximately 40 percent of its weight in water due to the tiny pores on its surface that suck up water through capillary condensation and absorption.

Temperature

• Silica gel is most efficient at temperatures of 77 degrees Fahrenheit and lower. In this temperature range, silica reaches its peak water capacity of 35 gm of water for every 100 gm of silica gel in approximately 5 hours. Silica gel's efficiency drops exponentially as the temperature above 77 degrees.

Alternatives

• Clay is naturally occuring. Clay and silica share similar qualities.

  Alternative desiccants to silica include: molecular sieves, clay and calcium oxide. Calcium oxide is more absorbent at low humidity. Molecular sieves are more efficient at higher temperatures. Clay has a similar efficiency to silica and can be reused.

Safety

• Prolonged inhalation of silica can cause respiratory distress.

  Although silica gel is relatively non-toxic, it is an irritant. Avoid inhalation, ingestion and contact with skin and eyes. Flush the contaminated area with water for 15 minutes should contact occur.