subject: The Characteristics And Applications Of Molecular Sieves [print this page] Molecular sieves are defined as a material that comprises very minute pores that have a similar size and shape. Because of this property, the smaller molecules of another material can easily pass through, but the larger molecules are blocked just like a sieve. This uniformity in its structure makes this material a great desiccant. In fact, some common examples of this would be activated charcoal/carbon or silica gel.
This material is a tried and tested desiccant in the market today. It offers ample advantages owing to the desirable traits that it possesses. This particular form is desiccant is a synthetically manufactured form of Zeolite. They carry several properties such an complex yet uniform network of holes or empty cavities. These pores are what give this desiccant the ability to carry out exceptional absorption operations. The smaller the molecules, the better and higher is the absorption capacity. On the contrary, the larger the pores of this desiccant, lower are its ability to retain moisture, liquids or even gases.
Molecular sieves are most often generated using sodium potassium or calcium alumina silicate. If you ask an expert to offer you the most aggressive desiccant in the market, they will most likely recommend the use of a molecular sieve. Thats because they have the ability to absorb and retain liquids, gases and moisture that is almost 20% more than their weight.
Despite the efficiency of this desiccant, there is no single solution for different industries. You will most often have to get a customized solution from a reputable company. The solutions that they draft for your would depend on your moisture absorption requirements. This desiccant might either be used singularly or it could be coupled with another adsorbant so as to achieve the desired results. Areas that are most prone to the ill effects of moisturesuch as food products, papers, cargo storage etc stand to benefit most from the use of this desiccant. Interestingly, studies have proven that if used in the prescribed manner, this desiccant can easily lower the relative humidity to 10% and keep the environment dry.
It is important to know the pore sizes of this particular desiccant before you decide to put it to use. The most common pore sizes are 3A, 4A, 5A, 8A, 10A and even higher. Different pore sizes make molecular sieves suitable for a specific application. For instance, the size 3A is great for absorbing certain types of gases, NH3 and water. On the other hand, size 4A is most effective when used with gases such as CO2, SO2, H2S, C2H4, C3H6 and even water. It is important to purchase molecular sieves from a reputable source; else it could prove to be a costly mistake.
