Desiccant‘s performance relies on careful preparation, strategic placement, and mindful implementation. In this section, we explore the best practices of desiccant bags to safeguard items from the damaging effects of excess humidity.
Prepare the Packaging
Before introducing desiccant bags into the space, ensure the environment is conducive to their effectiveness. Remove any existing moisture sources and debris from the area. Clean surfaces and allow them to dry thoroughly before placing desiccant bags. Address any leaks or sources of water ingress that might undermine the desiccant’s efforts. Ensuring a moisture-tight environment enhances the efficiency of the desiccant packs.
The quantity and type of desiccants required will depend on the volume of the sealed container. The packaging material used is also a factor in deciding the type of desiccants that will be most effective. Apart from choosing these considerations, the most critical component is the quantity of moisture that requires absorption and the rate of the absorption process in the packaging.
Overall storage and shipping conditions impact the product’s results and humidity and temperature requirements. Generally, the type of desiccant can significantly impact its absorption rate capacity and cost. Activated clay has a lower absorption, offering 28% by weight absorption capacity. On the other hand, silica gel is a moderate desiccant with a medium absorption capacity by weight at 38%. Molecular sieves are active desiccants offering the highest absorption rate capacity by weight at 20%.
Having Proper Placement
Desiccants are most effective in sealed moisture barrier bags or rigid, sealed containers. A controlled environment is essential for the optimal absorption of trapped water vapours inside the packaging. If a large amount of new moisture from the outer environment starts getting inside the container or packaging, desiccants as moisture control products will not ensure the best results.
Position desiccant bags in corners, crevices, and other areas prone to moisture accumulation. These spots are often where condensation and humidity are most problematic. When storing items in containers, bags, or boxes, place desiccant bags alongside or within the items. This ensures that the surrounding air remains dry. Distribute desiccant bags evenly for larger spaces to prevent moisture accumulation in specific areas. Ensure that desiccants are accessible and can interact with the surrounding air.
Regular Inspection and Replacement
Regularly inspect desiccant bags for signs of saturation. Indicating desiccants change colour as they absorb moisture, providing a visual cue that replacement is needed. Establish a schedule for replacing or regenerating desiccant bags, especially in high-humidity environments.
This prevents the bags from becoming overwhelmed and losing their effectiveness. For storage or shipping items, replace desiccant bags at specified intervals to ensure consistent moisture control. There are several methods to monitor humidity:
Humidity Data Loggers: These devices measure relative humidity and provide real-time data. Place them near the desiccant bags to gauge their impact.
Desiccant Weight Inspection: Regularly assess the physical condition of the desiccant bags. It would be time for a replacement if they are heavier than the original weight. The weight requirement would depend on the absorption rate capacity of the selected moisture absorber.
Humidity Indicator Cards: Use a humidity indicator card with desiccants for humidity control. The humidity indicator card placed inside the packaging helps the user to monitor the humidity levels. Once there is a colour change, it is an indication to replace the desiccant.
Indicating Silica Gel: Interpreting the colour change depends on the specific desiccant and its manufacturer’s guidelines. Typically, a blue or orange indicating desiccant will turn pink when saturated, while an orange indicating desiccant might shift to green or colourless.
