Silikaaggael

Silikaaggael, commonly known as silica gel, is a porous, amorphous form of silicon dioxide (SiO2) used as a desiccant. It consists of small beads with a high internal surface area that can absorb significant amounts of water vapor, making it effective at keeping enclosed spaces dry. The term silikaaggael is used in some languages as a direct transliteration of silica gel.

Manufacture involves forming a silica network through the hydrolysis and condensation of silica precursors, followed by drying to remove water and stabilize the porous structure. The result is beads or granules with a hierarchical pore system that traps moisture. Some beads include an indicator dye that changes color as humidity increases; cobalt chloride indicators have been common historically, but many modern formulations use non-toxic alternatives in order to avoid hazardous disposal concerns.

Properties of silica gel include a high adsorption capacity, chemical inertness, and stability across a broad temperature range. The material is widely regarded as non-toxic in normal use, though it is not edible and can pose a choking risk if ingested. Silica gel can be regenerated by heating to elevated temperatures, which drives off the absorbed water and restores its moisture-absorbing capacity. Reuse is common in both consumer and industrial settings, though regeneration efficiency declines with age and contamination.

Applications span packaging and storage for food, electronics, pharmaceuticals, leather goods, and other moisture-sensitive items. It is also used in laboratory desiccators and as a support material in some catalytic processes. In handling and disposal, it should be kept dry and away from children; used or contaminated beads should be disposed of according to local waste regulations.