Measuring The Performance and Physical Characteristics of Desiccant Bags

This past month here at Steel Camel we conducted our very own Desiccant Bag experiment. The test was used to measure the performance characteristics of bagged absorbent and adsorbent desiccants used to help maintain a moisture free environment to prevent damage to Moisture Sensitive Devices (MSD). The material in MDS's can include, but not limited to metals, plastics, and electronic parts. Metals can include copper, brass, and iron. The main outcomes of the test that we gathered were. 

1. Measurement of when water vapor droplets begin to condense and dew is formed.
2. The measurement of when water vapor droplets begin to condense and dew is formed 
3. Observed Condensation
4. Weight Gain/ Sorption Capacity

Supplies and Equipment Used in the Experiment Listed Below

• 10” x 10” x 4” Sealed Glass Container or like size glass jar with sealed lid. 64 Ounce with wide lid. 25 cm x 25 cm x 10cm 
• 40 milliliters of Water in Glass Jar at room temperature 
• Three brass bullets 2” x ¼” or like metal products such as silver ware. An example can be a standard metal plated dinner fork. 
• Three each 2”x2” Circuit Board or like plastic / metal materials 
• Indoor Humidity / Temperature Thermometer / Hygrometer accuracy of ±2°F/°C and ±4%- 4%RH
• Two each Digital Bluetooth Thermometer / Hygrometer / Dew Point Meter or like products. Sensors should be WiFi capable and connected.
• Digital Scale capable of measuring in grams of one decimal. Gram Scale should be 0.01g Accuracy
• 1 Unit of Absorbent Desiccant Bag = to 12.3 grams 3”x4” 7.5 cm x 10 cm 
• 1 Unit of Adsorbent Silica Gel Desiccant Bag = 41 Grams 3”x4” 7.5 cm x 10 cm 
• Heat Lamp up to 110F
• Timer

Procedures for Test Implementation

1. Record the Desiccant Bag Weights
2. Measured Water and Record
3. Placed Items and Water Jar in Container in Same General Area.
4. Place Metal Objects in Container in Same General Area.
5. Installed Remote Sensor with Double Sided Tape Inside Container with Double Sided Tape in Same General Area of Each Container
6. Install Indoor Humidity / Temperature Thermometer / Hygrometer 
7. Close and Seal Container
8. Place Container in Outdoor Environment Exposed to Sun and Protected from Rain

Results
In addition to our results posted below here is a link to our Youtube Channel where you can find the more in depth explanation of the experiment as well as a link to Hazzbro who also conducted a test on our Desiccant Bag

Steel Camel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmF7UKedBFm2MG9jrBhp2Yw 

Hazzbro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=64uBygiOFoQ

For more information contact Steel Camel at 813-877-4665 or email us at [email protected]