Silica Gel Blue Self Indicating
$ 5.80 Original price was: $ 5.80.$ 5.74Current price is: $ 5.74.
Silica Gel Blue Self Indicating is a granular, porous form of amorphous silica that contains a moisture-sensitive cobalt compound. The blue color changes to pink as the silica absorbs moisture, providing a visual indication of saturation. Packaged in 25kg quantities, this self-indicating desiccant is widely used in industrial, commercial, and consumer applications for moisture control, preservation, and protection of sensitive materials. Its high surface area, non-corrosive nature, and easy regeneration make it a preferred drying agent across various industries.
Silica Gel Blue Self Indicating
Primary Uses
Packaging & Storage Protection
- Used to control humidity in the packaging of electronics, optics, instruments, and pharmaceuticals.
- Included in shipping containers and product packaging to prevent moisture damage during transit and storage.
- Protects documents, photos, and archival materials from mold and degradation.
Industrial Drying & Dehumidification
- Used in compressed air and gas drying systems to remove water vapor.
- Applied in sealed containers and cabinets where moisture control is critical (e.g., toolboxes, electrical enclosures).
- Common in transformer breathers to prevent moisture ingress into insulating oil.
Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare
- Protects capsules, tablets, and powders from humidity during storage and shipping.
- Used in pharmaceutical cleanrooms and laboratory desiccators for moisture-sensitive substances.
Laboratories & Scientific Applications
- Maintains dry conditions in desiccators and drying chambers.
- Helps preserve reagents, chemicals, and lab instruments from humidity-related degradation.
Electronics & Optics
- Maintains moisture-free environments for sensitive devices such as sensors, semiconductors, and lenses.
- Used in storage of optical instruments, cameras, and night-vision equipment.
Secondary Uses
Food Industry
- Used as a desiccant in non-edible product packaging (e.g., spice sachets, jerky packets) to prolong shelf life.
- Employed in food machinery parts or packaging machines to prevent condensation. (Note: Not food-grade)
Military & Aerospace
- Ensures moisture protection of weapons systems, avionics, and mission-critical gear during long-term storage.
Museums & Archival Storage
- Controls humidity in display cases and storage vaults to preserve textiles, artworks, and rare books.
Consumer Use
- Used in closets, shoe boxes, gun safes, and camera bags to keep personal items dry.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Silicon dioxide (SiO₂), amorphous, with cobalt(II) chloride indicator
- Common/Trade Name: Silica Gel Blue Self-Indicating
- CAS Number: 7631-86-9 (silica), 7646-79-9 (cobalt(II) chloride)
- HS Code: 2811.22.00 (Silica gel)
- Synonyms: Blue Silica Gel, Indicating Desiccant, Self-Indicating Silica
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Solid (granules or beads)
- Color & Odor: Blue when dry, turns pink when saturated; odorless
- Particle Size: Typically 1–5 mm diameter
- Surface Area: 600–800 m²/g
- Moisture Capacity: Up to 40% of its own weight
- Solubility: Insoluble in water and most solvents
- Regeneration Temperature: 120°C–150°C (for moisture release and reuse)
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification: Harmful due to cobalt content; potential carcinogen (when inhaled in dust form)
- Toxicity: Moderate (avoid ingestion or prolonged skin contact)
- Exposure Limits: Minimize exposure to cobalt compounds; follow workplace safety guidelines
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in tightly sealed, moisture-proof containers in a dry, cool environment
- Container Type: 25kg drum, bag, or pail (moisture-resistant packaging)
- Shelf Life: Indefinite if kept dry and sealed; color change indicates saturation
- Handling Precautions: Avoid creating dust; wear protective gloves and eyewear
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with industrial desiccant regulations and quality standards (e.g., MIL-D-3464E)
- Not approved for food or pharmaceutical direct contact (unless cobalt-free variants are used)
- Subject to hazardous material labeling in some regions due to cobalt chloride content
- REACH-compliant (restricted substance notifications may apply)
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Non-biodegradable
- Ecotoxicity: Cobalt chloride is toxic to aquatic life; handle spent material properly
- Bioaccumulation: Not likely for silica, but cobalt may pose risk if improperly disposed
- Disposal Considerations: Dispose as hazardous waste if saturated or contaminated
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves, dust mask or respirator, goggles
- Handling Guidelines: Avoid inhalation of dust; wash hands after handling
- Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and stored in a dry environment
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms develop
- Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; get medical advice if irritation develops
- Eye Contact: Flush with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention
- Ingestion: Rinse mouth thoroughly; do not induce vomiting; consult a healthcare provider
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable; inert material
- Extinguishing Media: Use appropriate media for surrounding materials
- Special Precautions: Wear protective gear in case of contaminated surroundings
- Hazardous Combustion Products: None (inert under fire conditions)

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