Desiccant: meaning, definitions and examples

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desiccant

[ˈdesɪkənt ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

moisture absorption

A desiccant is a substance that absorbs moisture and is used to keep things dry. It is commonly used in packaging to prevent damage from humidity.

Synonyms

dehumidifier, drying agent.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
desiccant	Typically used in scientific or industrial settings to remove moisture from the air or from specific materials. Often comes in small packets found in packaging to keep products dry. The desiccant packets in the shoe box help keep the shoes dry Silica gel is a common desiccant used in various industries
drying agent	Often used in chemistry to refer to substances that are used to absorb water or moisture in chemical reactions or processes. Calcium chloride is a common drying agent in laboratory experiments Adding a drying agent to the mixture will help remove excess moisture
dehumidifier	Used in home or office environments to reduce the level of humidity in the air, which can prevent mold growth and improve air quality. We need to buy a dehumidifier to manage the humidity in the basement Using a dehumidifier can help alleviate allergies by reducing mold and dust mites

Word

Description / Examples

desiccant

Typically used in scientific or industrial settings to remove moisture from the air or from specific materials. Often comes in small packets found in packaging to keep products dry.

The desiccant packets in the shoe box help keep the shoes dry
Silica gel is a common desiccant used in various industries

drying agent

Often used in chemistry to refer to substances that are used to absorb water or moisture in chemical reactions or processes.

Calcium chloride is a common drying agent in laboratory experiments
Adding a drying agent to the mixture will help remove excess moisture

dehumidifier

Used in home or office environments to reduce the level of humidity in the air, which can prevent mold growth and improve air quality.

We need to buy a dehumidifier to manage the humidity in the basement
Using a dehumidifier can help alleviate allergies by reducing mold and dust mites

Examples of usage

The desiccant packets inside the shoebox help keep the shoes dry during shipping.
Silica gel is a popular desiccant used in food packaging to extend shelf life.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'desiccant' comes from the Latin word 'desiccans', meaning 'to dry up'.
It was historically used in apothecaries and laboratories to keep materials dry.
The term has been present in English language since the late 19th century, reflecting a growing understanding of moisture control.

Science

Desiccants are commonly found in tiny packets labeled 'Do Not Eat' that come with packaged foods or electronics to prevent humidity damage.
Silica gel, one of the most common desiccants, can absorb moisture equivalent to 40% of its weight.
Desiccants are not only used in food preservation but also in pharmaceuticals to ensure tablets and capsules remain stable.

Industry Applications

In construction, desiccants are used to keep concrete dry before curing, ensuring stronger structures.
The electronics industry uses desiccants inside packaging to protect sensitive components from moisture that can cause damage.
Desiccants also play an essential role in shipping goods across various climates, especially for items sensitive to humidity.

Pop Culture

In movies and TV shows, characters sometimes humorously comment on the small silica gel packets, thinking they might be snacks.
Some online cooking shows emphasize using desiccants in home storage to keep spices fresh and potent.

Environmental Impact

Using natural desiccants like clay or zeolite can be more environmentally friendly compared to synthetic options.
Desiccants are being researched for use in sustainable packaging solutions that aim to reduce food waste across the globe.

Translations

Translations of the word "desiccant" in other languages:

🇵🇹 dessecante

🇮🇳 शोषक

🇩🇪 Trockenmittel

🇮🇩 zat pengering

🇺🇦 осушувач

🇵🇱 środek osuszający

🇯🇵 乾燥剤 (かんそうざい)

🇫🇷 desséchant

🇪🇸 desecante

🇹🇷 kurutucu madde

🇰🇷 건조제 (geonjoje)

🇸🇦 مادة مجففة

🇨🇿 sušidlo

🇸🇰 sušidlo

🇨🇳 干燥剂 (gānzào jì)

🇸🇮 sredstvo za sušenje

🇮🇸 þurrkorn

🇰🇿 құрғатқыш зат

🇬🇪 გამომშრალი საშუალება

🇦🇿 qurutma maddəsi

🇲🇽 desecante