(903 card) DESICCANT for gaz impermeable plast.bag
Valid Article
SILICA GEL, granulated 5 g
CAUTION
Use of silica gel containing the indicator cobalt chloride is forbidden in MSF due to the carcinogenicity. Instead, use silica gel with iron sulfate as humidity indicator (orange indicator).
Definition
Humidity absorbent product with saturation indicator.
Used to keep blood samples on filter paper away from humidity.
Synonym
Actigel, Silicagel, Dessicagel, Dessicant
Specifications
Technical specifications
- Silica impregnated with ferrous salts: SiO2 x H2O (orange)
- Size of the granules: ± 2 to 6 mm
- Absorption capacity of water at 25º C: min 23%
- Sachet:
- Mentions the warning "Do not eat"
- Made of vapour permeable material to allow humidity uptake
- Transparent to allow easy colour check of the humidity indicator
Packaging & Labelling
5 g sachet
Instructions for use
Can also be used to protect slides or a microscope from humidity (place the parts to be protected in a watertight box with a large quantity of silica gel).
The saturation indicator turns from orange to white/beige as it absorbs humidity. Regularly check the colour of the granules. If they become white, take new ones (single use).
Please consult the “Updated laboratory procedures, 2022” available online via the Laboratory working Group sharepoint page: Laboratory Procedures and Resources.
https://msfintl.sharepoint.com/sites/msfintlcommunities/LabWG/SitePages/Laboratory-Manual-page.aspx
For offline access, contact your laboratory advisor.
Storage
- Store below 25°C
- Keep in its tightly closed packaging.
- Can be used as long as the orange does not turn to white.
Waste management
If you come across silica gel containing the indicator cobalt chloride in the field, please contact your watsan referent for advice on proper disposal.
This is a substance with potenital carcinogenic properties (H350) and may damage fertility or the unborn child (H360).