Silica Gel

Silica Gel is an amorphous form of silicon dioxide, which is synthetically produced in the form of hard irregular granules (having the appearance of crystals) or hard irregular beads. It is available in porous, granular, and amorphous form, synthetically manufactured from the chemical reaction between sulfuric acid and sodium silicate. The internal structure of Silica Gel is composed of a vast network of interconnected microscopic pores which attract and hold water, alcohol, hydrocarbons and other chemicals by the phenomena known as physical adsorption and capillary condensation.

Silica Gel has been the desiccant of choice by government and industry since W.W.II. By surface adsorption, Silica Gel drinks up excess humidity from the air. It prevents condensation within enclosed areas which causes irreparable damage: rust, corrosion, tarnish, oxidation, mildew, fungus, mold, odor, spoilage, spotting, toning, stains on stamps & documents; fogging of lenses; deterioration of foods and medicines.

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Trade Name	Silica Gel
Chemical Family	Sodium Silicate
Formula	SiO₂+H₂O

Silica Gel: Specifications

Silica Gel: Chemical Data
Compound	SiO₂	Fe₂O₃	Al₂O₃	TiO₂	CaO	ZrO₂	Na₂O	Ig.loss
Contents (%)	99.71	0.01	0.1	0.09	0.01	0.02	0.02	0.02

Silica Gel: Absorbing Ability (30°C)
Relative Humidity	Absorbing Ability
20%	> 10%
50%	> 26%
90%	> 36%

Silica Gel: Physical Data
Melting point = 2900 ^oF , 1900 ^oC	Bulk density > 750 g./ l
Melting point ^o >190	Percent vaporizes by weight <10% at 175 ^oF
Appearance transparent bead	Specific resistance > 4,000 W. cm
Solubility in water = insoluble	Loss on drying < 3.0 %
Surface area 650 m² / g.

Applications of Silica Gel

For Industrial Use
Precision Apparatus	Keep precision equipment (such as IV etc.) safe from moisture
AIR, LNG & LPG	Remove water from instrument air LNG or LPG
Exports	Prevents exporting goods from moisture damage during shipment
Warehouse & Freight	Effectively protects all valuable packaging from moisture damage
For Home Use
Foodstuff	Protects foodstuff from moisture damage, hence help maintain crisp and freshness
Pharmaceutica	Ensure the quality of moisture sensitive pharmaceuticals
Photo Material	Protect film sensitive emulsions from changing color due to moisture
Flower Drying	Dries flower quickly and safety. Beautiful dried flowers last forever

Advantages of Silica Gel

1	Silica gel has ability to adsorb up to one third of its own weight in water vapour. This adsorption efficiency is approximately 35% greater that typical desiccant clays, making silica gel the preferred choice where weight or efficiency are important factors.
2	Silica gel has an almost indefinite shelf life if stored in airtight conditions.
3	Silica gel can be regenerated and reused if required. Gently heating silica gel will drive off the adsorbed moisture and leave it ready for reuse.
4	Silica gel is a very inert material, it will not normally attack or corrode other materials and with the exception of strong alkalis and hydrofluoric acid is itself resistant to attack.
5	Silica gel is non-toxic and non-flammable.
6	Silica gel is most frequently and conveniently used packed in a breathable sachet or bag. These are available in a wide range of sizes suitable for use with a wide range of applications.

Packing Material

Plastic, Paper,
Non Woven Bag, Cloth Bag
Paper Drum
1 Gram-2,000 Grams Package available

Silica Gel's variation of color indication

20%	Blue or Light Blue
35%	Grey or Purple
50%	Pink of Pinkish

Silica Gel Safety Precaution

Safety Direction
Safety Direction	Reactivity is stable under normal temperatures and pressures in sealed containers. Hazardous polymerization will not occur.
Spill	Clean up personnel need protection against inhalation of dusts or fumes. Eye protection is required. Vacuuming methods of clean up are preferred.
Inhaled	May cause health hazards when Inhaled, ingested or in contact with the eye and skin. Prolonged Inhalation may cause irritation to the upper respiratory track and lung damage. Contact with eye tissue may result irritation.
Fire	Nonflammable but negligible fire and explosion hazard when exposed to heat or flame by reaction with Incompatible substances. When fire occurs, use dry chemical, water spray, or foam. For larger fires, use water spray fog or foam.

First Aid
Inhalation	Remove to fresh air immediately. If breathing has stopped, give artificial respiration. Keep affected person warm and at rest. Get medical attention immediately.
Ingestion	If large amounts have been ingested, give emetics to cause vomiting stomach siphon may be applied as well .Milk and fatty acids should be avoided. Get medical attention immediately.
Eyes	Wash eyes immediately and carefully for 30 minutes with running water, lifting upper and lower eyelids occasionally. Get prompt medical attention.
Skin	To avoid repeated or prolonged contact with this chemical, use good hygienic practices. Wash with soap and a large amount or water. Get medical attention if irritation or Inflammation develops.