Performance Analysis of Silica-Gel and Calcium Chloride Composite Desiccant Prepared by Varying Proportions: A Gravimetric Study

Abstract

This research used gravimetric analysis to evaluate the moisture content and uptake capacity of composite desiccants containing silica-gel and calcium chloride. The objective was to determine the ideal silica-gel-to-calcium chloride ratio for optimal moisture control performance. Five samples of the composite desiccant materials named CM1, CM2, CM3, CM4, and CM5 were prepared by varying proportions of silica-gel and calcium chloride in every sample using the impregnation method. Sample CM0 contains 100% silica-gel by weight. The study results show that composite desiccants outperform silica-gel alone, with the highest increase in performance found for sample CM3, which is around 21% higher than conventional silica-gel., followed by CM2, CM4, CM1 and CM5. Additionally, the study identifies different applications where different composite desiccants can be used based on their performance. The results of this research study will help researchers and industries to achieve improved moisture control by tailoring the ratio of silica-gel and calcium chloride in the composite desiccant. Effective moisture control can help extend the shelf life of products and reduce the risk of moisture-related damage in various applications, from the storage of food and pharmaceuticals to transporting goods and construction materials.