Silica Gel

Silica Gel (CAS 112926-00-8) is a synthetic amorphous silicon dioxide used as a functional additive in industrial and consumer product manufacturing.

Where is Silica Gel used?

• Coatings and inks: matting agent and anti-settling additive controlling sheen and preventing pigment separation
• Rubber and tire: reinforcing filler and processing aid improving compound stability and service life
• Personal care: texture adjuster, oil absorption control and spreadability aid in creams, powders and color cosmetics
• Adhesives, sealants and polymer systems: thixotropic agent and stabilizer preventing sag in applied films
• Its high surface area and porous structure control rheology and manage foam.
• Desiccant use in packaging, electronics, pharmaceutical and food sectors.
• In laboratories it protects biological samples, hygroscopic reagents, analytical standards and equipment in desiccators and cabinets.
• In health test kits and diagnostic products it maintains a stable and dry internal environment, preserving test accuracy and extending shelf life.

Good to know: Standard grades include FCC, USP and Ph. Eur. compliant material.

Formulation notes

• The amount to be used must be directly proportional to the amount of empty air inside the package.
• Orange indicating grades are a safer alternative to blue grades for sensitive applications.

Typical specification

• Available in white and colored versions.
• Indicator grades change color as moisture is absorbed and are available in orange and blue color options.
• Blue grades have an assay of 97–99% SiO₂.
• Blue grades adsorb ≥8–12% moisture at 20% relative humidity.

Regulatory status

• Orange-to-green indicating grades contain no cobalt and comply with REACH regulations.
• Food packaging sachets comply with FDA standards (Tyvek type).

Storage, packaging and handling

• Regeneration is carried out at 90-100 °C for around 90 minutes for each 1 cm of silica gel in the support.
• It can be regenerated by heating at 100-120°C for approximately 1 hour.
• Granules are supplied in 25 kg cartons.

Frequently asked questions about Silica Gel

How should a required desiccant amount be distributed inside a package?

If a 500 g desiccant requirement exists, dividing it into equal amounts (2x250 g or 5x100 g) and distributing it homogeneously in the package provides more effective moisture adsorption.

What particle size is available for granular grades?

The particle size (granulometry) of the grade is 2-4 mm.

How does orange indicating silica gel behave during use?

Orange granules 2 - 5 mm change color from orange (active) to green (saturated).

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.