Silica Gel and Desiccant differences

Silica gel is another form of silicon dioxide. It is granular, vitreous, porous structured, made synthetically from sodium silicate. Silica gel crystals are tough and hard. Even we are calling it as a gel, it is more solid than common household gels like gelatin or agar. Silica gel is one of the naturally occurring minerals. It is purifying and processing into granular or beaded form for the use.

Silica gel can be used as a medium in the purification of synthesized compounds with chromatography technique based on the adsorption ability of it, because of the hazardous nature of silica gel, it is a challenge. Silica gel is naturally available in 3 colors. Orange, Blue, and white. It can be classified as 3 types.

Type 1 - It is clear crystals with the pore diameter approximately 2.5 nm, It is a drying agent, and the moisture-proof properties are commonly used as catalyst carriers, adsorbents, separators, and variable-pressure adsorbent. Type 2 - It is white colored clear silica gel beads with pore diameter 4.5-7.0 nm, It can be used as a liquid adsorbent, drier, and fragrance carriers conjointly could also be used as catalyst carriers, cat litter. Type 3 - crystal clear, micro-pored form, substance for the preparation of colloid cat litter.

Silica gel is a desiccant. It is mainly used to protect goods against excess moisture. The products which will get damaged due to moisture can secure by placing desiccants along with it in a closed container or box. Excess moisture can promote the growth of mold, spoilage, and corrosion. It will decay the goods.

As a desiccant, silica gel has a strong attraction to water molecules. It will absorb moisture easily. It available commonly everywhere and it is using for commercial purposes. Many manufactures are adding small silica gel packets into their new products to keep the product out of moisture.

Silica gel is available in different kinds of packets for different purposes. A desiccant can be the best combination with the products which are going to ship for a long duration. It is available in different forms as per the purpose of use.