Desiccants - Desiccant Packs

Why use desiccants?

Products vulnerable to moisture damage need special protection during storage and transport to remain effective. Desiccant Packets provide a simple, dependable, and economical solution for preventing moisture damage in small, sealed packages. A popular Desiccant Packets configuration in the pharmaceutical industry, Desiccant Packets are also ideal for protecting nutraceuticals, diagnostics, electronics, food, and products from moisture.

What are common uses of desiccants?

• Protect foods and medicines like popcorn, candy, pills, and vitamins.
• Protect important documents inside safes and lock boxes.
• Protect musical and camera equipment, electronics, leather, rubber, copper, etc.
• For moisture protection of foods, medicines, and exposed electronic components, we recommend white sulfur-free Tyvek Desiccant Packets. Tyvek Desiccants are sold in the same pail and drum sizes as Brown Kraft Desiccants.

What size bags, packets, and canisters are available?

Standard sizes for unit bags are as follows: 1/6, 1/3, 1/2, 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, and 80 units. One unit is roughly one ounce of desiccant material.

Standard sizes for packets are as follows: 1/4, 1/2, 1, 2, 3, 5, and 10 grams.

Standard sizes for canisters are as follows: 1/2, 1, 2, and 3 grams.

What is a desiccant "unit"?

In desiccant terminology, a "unit" is the quantity of desiccant required to meet the U.S. Military's specification (MIL-D-3464E) for packaged desiccant products. Under this specification, a unit is the quantity of desiccant that will adsorb 3.00 grams of water vapor at 20% relative humidity or 6.00 grams of water vapor at 40% relative humidity at 77°F (25°C).

How do you use desiccant packs?

1. Place your item into an anti-static bag, static shielding bag, or a plastic zip locking bag and insert the desiccant packet.
2. Seal the bag immediately.
3. The clay desiccant pack will help to remove moisture from the air within the package.

How to Store Desiccant Packs?

Unused desiccant packs should be stored in an air-tight container. To preserve their effectiveness, they should be kept in the case immediately before use.

What are clay desiccants?

Clay desiccants are non-hazardous, moisture-absorbent substances created by the controlled drying of calcium (bentonite) aluminosilicate clay. This naturally occurring montmorillonite clay has a special affinity for moisture and is chemically inert and non-corrosive. 

Clay is the least expensive of all desiccants and highly effective within normal temperature and relative humidity ranges. It is used in most industrial applications requiring humidity control. Clay desiccant can adsorb up to 28% of its weight in water vapor at 77°F (25°C) and 80% relative humidity. 

Clay desiccant packs work satisfactorily below 120°F (49°C). Above 120°F (49°C), there is a possibility that the clay will give up moisture rather than pull it in (silica gel or molecular sieve are suitable for such temperatures). 

How are desiccants packaged?

Desiccants are generally packaged in bags, 5-gallon buckets or pails, packets, canisters, or fiber drums. (Packets are sometimes referred to as "sachets" or "pouches.")

Desiccants in bags are commonly referred to as industrial desiccants. They are primarily used by industry because their medium to large size enables them to adsorb moisture in heavy-duty applications. 

Bagged desiccants are available in:

Tyvek (heat sealed)
Kraft paper (heat sealed)
Lantuck non-woven rayon/polyester blend (string sewn)
 
The term "bagged" desiccants commonly refers to any desiccant that is packaged by the unit.

What is the difference between a Tyvek clay desiccant and a kraft paper desiccant

The key differences between Tyvek clay desiccants and Kraft paper desiccants lie in the materials used for the packaging, durability, breathability, and specific applications:

1. Material
   Tyvek clay desiccant: Tyvek is a synthetic material made from high-density polyethylene fibers, which is tear-resistant, moisture-resistant, and breathable. It allows water vapor to pass through while maintaining durability and protection.
   Kraft paper desiccant: Kraft paper is a natural, biodegradable material. It is breathable and eco-friendly, but not as durable or moisture-resistant as Tyvek.
2. Durability
   Tyvek clay desiccant: Extremely durable, resistant to tearing and punctures. It provides long-lasting performance in harsh environments.
   Kraft paper desiccant: Less durable compared to Tyvek. It can tear more easily, especially in conditions where rough handling is common.
3. Breathability
   Tyvek clay desiccant: Offers excellent breathability, allowing for efficient moisture absorption while keeping the desiccant material inside secure.
   Kraft paper desiccant: Also breathable but may not be as effective as Tyvek in certain high-moisture environments.
4. Appearance
   Tyvek clay desiccant: Typically white with a smooth surface, giving a more modern or industrial appearance.
   Kraft paper desiccant: Brown, with a rough, natural look, often associated with eco-friendly or traditional packaging.
5. Applications
   Tyvek clay desiccant: Used in situations where higher durability and resistance to external factors are needed, such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, or long-term storage.
   Kraft paper desiccant: Common in less demanding environments, such as packaging of food, textiles, or products that require a more environmentally conscious solution.
6. Environmental Impact
   Tyvek clay desiccant: Tyvek is not biodegradable but can be recycled under certain conditions.
   Kraft paper desiccant: Kraft paper is biodegradable and more eco-friendly, making it a popular choice for those focusing on sustainability.