Desiccants

Desiccants are materials used to remove moisture from air or packaged goods, helping to maintain low humidity in storage and during handling. They work by two main mechanisms: adsorption, where water molecules adhere to the surface of a porous solid, and absorption, where moisture is taken into the internal structure of the material. The choice of desiccant depends on the environment, the desired humidity level, and whether regeneration or single-use replacement is preferred.

Common desiccants include silica gel, activated alumina, and molecular sieves (zeolites). Silica gel is a porous but chemically inert substance that adsorbs water across a wide range of humidity. Activated alumina and various molecular sieves offer defined pore sizes to selectively remove water from gases or liquids. Montmorillonite clays and calcium sulfate are other absorbent options used in different applications. Deliquescent desiccants, such as calcium chloride, absorb moisture until they dissolve into a liquid brine and are effective in very humid environments, though they are typically single-use.

Applications span consumer packaging (electronics, pharmaceuticals, food), storage containers and closets, cabinet desiccators, and industrial gas or solvent drying. In electronics and pharmaceuticals, desiccants help prevent condensation and corrosion or spoilage.

Regeneration and lifespan vary by material. Silica gel and some clays can be dried and reused by heating to drive off bound water, while molecular sieves require higher temperatures. Deliquescent desiccants are usually disposed of after use. Safety considerations include non-toxicity for many desiccants (though not for all) and proper handling to avoid skin or eye irritation or ingestion hazards. Disposal follows local guidelines.