Shenzhen Ensobo Desiccant Co., Ltd. offers a wide variety of desiccants. Different types react significantly with water, and some pose safety risks that require specific treatment based on their composition.
Common Types: Typical Reactions with Water
Quicklime desiccant (calcium oxide) is one of the most reactive of Ensobo's products. It undergoes a violent exothermic reaction with water, producing calcium hydroxide, which releases a large amount of heat and causes a sharp rise in temperature. If present in a confined space and at high concentrations, the gas expansion can cause the packaging bag to rupture or even explode. The resulting calcium hydroxide is highly alkaline and can cause burns in contact with skin.
Ensobo's silica gel desiccant primarily absorbs water physically. The blue silica gel, containing an indicator, turns pink to indicate saturation. Upon absorbing water, the volume expands slightly, without exothermicity or explosion risk. It is chemically stable and highly safe.
Calcium chloride desiccant dissolves gently in water, forming a calcium chloride hydrate solution. This process is gentle, with no significant heat release or dramatic volume change.
Mineral desiccants (such as montmorillonite) absorb water molecules through their interlayer structure, resulting in clumping or expansion, but without chemical reactions, and are therefore relatively safe. Safety Risks and Mitigation
Only quicklime desiccants can explode, requiring both a confined space and a high quicklime content. Small amounts of quicklime in daily use will typically only heat up when exposed to water, so there's no need to panic.
Ensobo reminds that it's important to carefully distinguish between different desiccants when using them. Quicklime desiccants should be kept away from water. If contact occurs, immediately move away and take protective measures. Silica gel, calcium chloride, and mineral desiccants are relatively safe when exposed to water and can be handled as usual. Understanding the characteristics of different desiccants can effectively mitigate risks.