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What Is Silica Gel?

Invented in 1919, silica gel is a synthetic solid material that is used to draw out moisture. It is commonly used in packaging and can even be used by hobbyists to dry freshly cut flowers to prepare the blossoms for craft use.

  1. Identification

    • Silica gel is made synthetically from sodium silicate. It is a solid material--not a gel--as the name falsely implies.

    Features

    • When used in packaging to remove moisture, tiny beads of silica gel are contained in small bags. The bags are labeled with a warning not to consume.

    History

    • Silica gel was patented by Walter A. Patrick at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, in 1919. The Silica Gel Company of Baltimore developed commercial uses for the substance.

    Benefits

    • During World War I, silica gel was used to absorb moisture and vapors from gas masks.

    Function

    • Some forms of silica gel are used in cat litter, to help preserve foods and in chemistry research.

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