Silica gel意思
"Silica gel" is a type of porous, granular material that is made from silicon dioxide (SiO2), which is also known as silica. The "gel" part of the name comes from the fact that it is a three-dimensional network of interlinked SiO2 molecules that form a solid with a porous structure. This structure gives silica gel many unique properties, including the ability to absorb and hold large amounts of water.
Silica gel is often used as a desiccant, which means it is used to absorb moisture and keep things dry. It is commonly found in small packets inside products such as shoes, electronics, and food packages to prevent moisture damage. The gel form of silica is blue in color and turns pink when it becomes saturated with water, indicating that it needs to be replaced or reactivated.
Silica gel is also used in a variety of other applications, including:
- Catalysts and catalyst carriers in chemical reactions.
- Adsorbents for removing impurities from liquids and gases.
- Packing materials in the shipping industry to protect fragile items from moisture and humidity.
- In horticulture, as a soil additive to improve drainage and aeration.
- In the pharmaceutical industry, as a drying agent for drugs and other chemicals.
Silica gel is non-toxic and safe to use, but it can be a choking hazard if swallowed, so it is often packaged in a way that prevents accidental ingestion.