Desiccants are a type of material used in to absorb moisture, humidity, and other contaminants. These materials are particularly useful for protecting goods during shipping and storage, as they help to maintain the quality and integrity of the product. Desiccants come in many different forms, including silica gel packets, clay desiccant bags, and molecular sieve sachets. These absorbent components are contained within a pack made from porous materials such as Tyvek or kraft paper, which allow them to draw moisture from the air within a container. In addition to absorbing water, some desiccants are also capable of absorbing aromatic substances, making them an excellent choice for odor management. There are a wide range of available desiccant pack sizes, starting at 1/6 unit and going all the way up to 80 units (5 1/2 grams to 2,640 grams).
One of the main benefits of using desiccants is that they can help to protect products from corrosion. For example, electronic components can be easily damaged by moisture and humidity, which can cause rust, corrosion, and deterioration. Desiccants help to prevent this type of damage by absorbing moisture and humidity, creating a dry environment that is less likely to cause damage to the product.Â
Another benefit of using desiccants in packaging is that they help to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria. Moisture and humidity can create an ideal environment for mold and bacteria to thrive, which can damage or spoil the product. By absorbing excess moisture, desiccants can help to prevent the growth of these harmful organisms, ensuring that the product remains fresh and safe for consumption.
Applications of Desiccant Packs
Desiccants are commonly used in a variety of industries, including food, pharmaceuticals, electronics, textiles, aerospace, and industrial. In the food industry, desiccants are often used to protect dry goods, such as grains, nuts, and seeds, from moisture and humidity. In the pharmaceutical industry, desiccants are used to protect drugs and medical devices from moisture and other contaminants that can compromise their effectiveness. In the electronics industry, desiccants are used to protect sensitive components, such as circuit boards and chips, from moisture and humidity.
Desiccants can be used within a variety of packaging materials, including boxes or bags. They can be integrated into the packaging material itself or included as separate packets or sachets. For ultimate protection, consider using desiccant combined with a barrier material, humidity indicator, and/or VCI product. When using desiccants, it is important to choose the right type and amount of material for the specific product being packaged. Too much desiccant may cause the product to become too dry, while too little desiccant may not provide adequate protection. A Royco Packaging product specialist can assist with the selection of the proper products for any moisture control application.
Investing in the proper protective packaging and shipping components is always a smart choice, and desiccants are a critical tool.Â
Contact an experienced packaging solutions advisor at Royco Packaging if you are searching for solutions for protective packaging and desiccant packs of the highest quality that are currently available on the market.