Silica Gel White

White silica gel (CAS 112926-00-8) is the standard non-indicating desiccant: translucent beads of amorphous silica with a surface area of 650–800 m²/g that adsorb up to 40% of their weight in water vapour at 90% relative humidity. Global Chemicals LLC supplies it in 1–3 mm, 2–5 mm, 3–6 mm and 4–8 mm beads, bulk density 0.68–0.72 kg/L, regenerable at 120–180 °C, in 25 kg bags, drums and big bags from stock in Muscat for bulk drying and packaging across Oman.

Where it is used. Fixed-bed compressed-air and instrument-air dryers, where two towers alternate between drying and regeneration; natural-gas and process-gas dehydration beds in small plants and on skids, where silica gel takes gas to a low dew point and is regenerated with heated gas; breathers on transformers, tanks and gearboxes; moisture control in storage areas, containers and shipping crates; bulk desiccant bags for machinery, pipes and spare parts in storage and transit; pharmaceutical and food packaging in the food-contact grade; and the chromatography and drying duties of laboratories. The bead size is chosen for the pressure drop and dust tolerance of the bed: fine beads for small cartridges and sachets, coarse for large towers and breathers. For a visual indication of saturation, pair it with a layer of orange or blue indicating gel at the outlet.

Why silica gel: it adsorbs across the whole humidity range, holds more water than clay or molecular sieve at high humidity, does not swell, dust or release water back on warming as readily as clay, and regenerates at a moderate temperature with no loss of structure. Regenerate by heating at 120–180 °C for two to three hours, then cool in a closed vessel; the beads survive many cycles until dust, oil or chemicals foul them.

Handling and storage: white silica gel is inert, non-toxic and not regulated for transport; wear a dust mask when pouring and keep bags sealed, because it starts absorbing moisture the moment it meets humid air. Every lot carries a certificate of analysis giving moisture capacity, bead size and bulk density, and a safety data sheet; the oilfield chemicals guide linked on this page lists the related dehydration products.

Delivery is same day within Muscat, next day to Sohar, Salalah and Duqm, and by road across the GCC with a certificate of origin. Request a quote with the bead size, pack type and tonnage.