Frequently Asked Questions

What is a desiccant and what does it do?

A desiccant is a hygroscopic (moisture absorbing) substance that induces or sustains a state of dryness (desiccation) in its vicinity; it is the opposite of a humectant.

Commonly encountered pre-packaged desiccants are solids that absorb water. Desiccants for specialized purposes may be in forms other than solid, and may work through other principles, such as chemical bonding of water molecules. Desiccare offers products made from the three major types of desiccants using different packaging and sizing to suit your products’ needs.

What are the three major types of desiccants?

  1. Montmorillonite Clay— A calcium aluminum silicate type of hydrous clay which is ground, processed and bagged. It is a naturally occurring non-hazardous substance. Clay is the most budget-friendly of all desiccants, and is used in most industrial applications requiring humidity control.

  2. Silica Gel— A form of silica manufactured from sodium silicate and sulfuric acid. Like Clay, Silica Gel is non-hazardous and is capable of adsorbing 40% of its weight in water vapor at 100% humidity. Silica Gel has a porous molecular structure that closely resembles a sponge, and has the highest capacity of any commercial desiccant for moisture adsorption.

  3. Molecular Sieve— A manufactured crystalline version of Zeolite containing a network of uniform pores and empty cavities. Molecular sieve is derived from sodium, potassium or calcium alumina silicate. It is a non-hazardous material. Molecular sieve is the desiccant of choice for the most demanding and unique applications. Molecular sieve is the most aggressive of the primary desiccants.

**Carbon- Although not a desiccant, Carbon is often used alone or in blends in packaging applications where odor is an issue (i.e. vitamin packaging).

What sizes are available?

All three major types of desiccants are available in Pillow Pak from 0.25 gram to 14 gram and Unit Pak from1/6 unit to 80 unit (approx. 5.8 lbs). Silica Gel and Clay are also available in bulk bags, as well as custom blends of two or more desiccants.

What size desiccant do I need?

There are many factors that are used to determine the amount of desiccant to be used. Package size, packaged material properties, barrier material are the main factors to consider.

To size the desiccant, email us or call our customer service department at 1-800-446-6650.

How are desiccants best used?

To be used most effectively, desiccants should be used within a closed/sealed moisture barrier or a rigid/sealed container. Humidity indicating cards are generally placed inside the container to show the humidity level and indicate when the desiccant needs to be replaced.

How are Desiccare's desiccants packaged?

Desiccare packages desiccants in Tyvek® (heat sealed), Kraft paper (heat sealed), and Sewn Bags (non-woven rayon/Polyester blend). Desiccare will work with you to create a custom solution for your business: request a quote today.