Silicone is a highly active adsorbent material, primarily composed of silicon dioxide, with the chemical formula mSiO₂·nH₂O. It is typically produced by reacting sodium silicate with sulfuric acid, followed by a series of post-treatment processes such as aging and acid soaking. Silicone is chemically stable, non-combustible, and does not react with any substances except for strong bases and hydrofluoric acid.
Toxicity of Silicone
Silicone is non-toxic, odorless, non-corrosive, and non-polluting, allowing it to come into direct contact with any material. Silicone desiccant is most effective in humid environments at room temperature (20–32°C) and high temperature (60–90°C), capable of reducing ambient relative humidity to around 40%. As a result, it has a wide range of applications.
Silicone can have a drying effect on human skin; therefore, protective workwear should be worn during handling. If silicone enters the eyes, rinse thoroughly with plenty of water and seek medical attention promptly. Silicone desiccant is the only desiccant certified by the U.S. FDA for direct contact with food and pharmaceuticals. In case of accidental ingestion, it poses no harm to the human body, is not absorbed, and is naturally excreted in feces.
