Silica Gel (SiO₂)

Product Overview

Silica Gel is a highly porous, granular form of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) widely used as a desiccant, moisture adsorbent, and catalyst support in various industries. Known for its excellent moisture absorption, thermal stability, and chemical inertness, silica gel helps protect products from moisture, corrosion, and degradation.

Available in beads, granules, or powder, silica gel is colorless or dyed (commonly blue, orange, or white) to indicate moisture saturation levels, making it ideal for industrial, pharmaceutical, electronics, and packaging applications.

Key Product Identification

• Product Name: Silica Gel

• Chemical Formula: SiO₂·nH₂O

• CAS Number: 7631-86-9

• Molecular Weight: 60.08 g/mol (SiO₂)

• HS Code: 28182000

• Appearance: Colorless, white, or dyed beads/granules

• Odor: Odorless

• Solubility: Insoluble in water and most solvents

Chemical & Physical Properties

Manufacturing & Quality Control

Silica gel is produced by acidifying sodium silicate solutions, followed by gelation, washing, drying, and activation. Quality control ensures uniform particle size, high adsorption capacity, and minimal impurities.

Quality assurance includes:

• Moisture adsorption testing

• Particle size and bulk density analysis

• Chemical purity and pH testing

• Batch traceability with COA

Available grades:

• Indicating Silica Gel (color-changing)

• Non-indicating Silica Gel

• Pharmaceutical Grade

• Industrial Grade

Applications of Silica Gel

Desiccant & Moisture Control

• Protects electronics, instruments, and packaged goods from moisture

• Prevents corrosion and mold growth in storage and shipping

• Common in packaging, shipping, and preservation

Pharmaceutical & Food Industry

• Maintains low humidity in tablet and capsule storage

• Preserves food, vitamins, and hygroscopic substances

Chemical & Industrial Use

• Catalyst support for chemical reactions

• Adsorbent for drying gases and liquids

• Component in chromatography and separation processes

Laboratory & Research Applications

• Drying agent for solvents and reagents

• Used in chemical synthesis and analytical processes

Packaging & Storage

• Packaging Options:

• 10 g – 1 kg sachets for packaging

• 25 kg bags for industrial use

• Custom packaging available

• Storage Conditions:

• Store in a cool, dry, and ventilated area

• Keep containers tightly sealed to prevent moisture adsorption

• Avoid direct contact with acids and strong bases

• Shelf Life: 36 months under proper storage conditions

Safety & Handling

• Generally non-toxic and chemically inert

• Avoid inhalation of fine powders

• Use gloves and dust masks when handling bulk powder

• Keep away from strong acids and bases

• Refer to SDS / MSDS for detailed safety information

Regulatory & Compliance

Available documentation:

• COA (Certificate of Analysis)

• SDS / MSDS

• REACH compliance

• FDA & USP (for pharmaceutical grade)

Why Choose Our Silica Gel?

• ✔ High adsorption capacity and consistent quality

• ✔ Suitable for industrial, pharmaceutical, and packaging applications

• ✔ Multiple particle sizes and indicating/non-indicating options

• ✔ Reliable supply and competitive pricing

• ✔ Strict quality control and batch traceability

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is silica gel used for?

It is primarily used as a desiccant, moisture adsorbent, and catalyst support.

Q2: Can silica gel be reused?

Yes, silica gel can be regenerated by heating at 120–150°C to remove absorbed moisture.

Q3: Is it safe for food and pharmaceuticals?

Pharmaceutical-grade silica gel is safe and commonly used in tablet, capsule, and food packaging.

Q4: How should it be stored?

Store in airtight containers in a cool, dry, and ventilated area to maintain adsorption capacity.