Trockenhalt

Trockenhalt is a term used to describe the practice or state of keeping materials, products, or environments free from moisture. It is applied across several fields, including storage, logistics, laboratory work, and construction.

In storage and logistics, Trockenhalt aims to maintain a specified low relative humidity to prevent moisture-related damage such as corrosion, mold, or spoilage. Methods include sealing, moisture barriers, desiccants (such as silica gel), humidity-controlled rooms, and active dehumidification systems. In laboratories and museums, dry conditions help prevent chemical reactions, hydrolysis, and degradation of hygroscopic materials.

In construction and building maintenance, Trockenhalt refers to moisture management to reduce dampness, wood decay, and corrosion of structural components. Techniques encompass moisture barriers in foundations, proper insulation, vapor retarders, drainage, and controlled ventilation to limit moisture ingress and accumulation.

Measurement relies on relative humidity and, for some applications, the moisture content of materials. Tools such as hygrometers and data loggers are used to monitor conditions and trigger alarms if thresholds are exceeded.

Challenges include energy consumption for active control, maintenance of humidity or desiccant systems, desiccant saturation, and the need for ongoing monitoring in the presence of potential moisture sources such as leaks, weather fluctuations, or process emissions.

Trockenhalt is thus a component of broader moisture management, complementing measures like damp-proofing, ventilation, and sealing. In different fields, the term may be used interchangeably with related concepts such as dry storage or desiccation.