Silica gel, also known as silicic acid gel or silicon dioxide gel, is a highly active adsorbent material. The following is a detailed introduction to silica gel:

I. Chemical Composition and Structure
The main component of silica gel is silicon dioxide (SiO₂), and it contains a certain amount of water (H₂O). Its chemical formula can be represented as mSiO₂·nH₂O. Silica gel is usually a transparent or milky white granular solid with an open porous structure, which gives it strong adsorption capabilities.

II. Physical and Chemical Properties
Adsorption: Silica gel can adsorb various substances, especially water molecules in the air. Some types of silica gel can have a moisture absorption capacity of up to 300% or 40%. This adsorption capability makes silica gel an excellent desiccant and adsorbent.
Thermal Stability: Silica gel has good temperature resistance. After vulcanization, silica gel can maintain its elasticity over the long term in environments ranging from -65°C to 250°C.
Chemical Properties: Silica gel is an amorphous substance that is insoluble in water and any solvents. It is non-toxic, odorless, and chemically stable. It does not react with any substances except strong bases and hydrofluoric acid.
Wear Resistance: Silica gel has strong wear resistance and is suitable for making silica gel products that resist friction.
Electrical Insulation Properties: Organic silica gel products have good insulation properties and are stable insulating materials, widely used in the electronics and electrical industries.

III. Classification and Applications
Silica gel can be divided into organic and inorganic categories based on its properties and components. Inorganic silica gel is mainly used in gas drying, liquid dehydration, chromatographic analysis, and as a catalyst. Organic silica gel, due to its stronger weather resistance and electrical insulation properties, is widely used in health products, automotive, baby products, medical supplies, and other fields, such as silica gel dolls and silica gel pacifiers.

In summary, silica gel is a material with various excellent properties and is widely used in various fields. When using it, it is necessary to select the appropriate silica gel product based on the specific situation and follow the corresponding precautions to ensure its performance and safety.

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