Is desiccant toxic?

Desiccant is already a common item in our home life, and its application field is also quite wide in our view. Therefore, we often come into contact with it in normal times. So, is this desiccant toxic? What should we do if we accidentally ingest it? Let’s take a look at the following knowledge introduction.

Are desiccants toxic? Among the common desiccants we have, transparent silica gel belongs to a type that is non-toxic. After all, silica gel desiccant is a highly active adsorption material. Usually, it is made by reacting sodium silicate and sulfuric acid, and is treated by aging, acid immersion, etc. We need to understand this.

Ferric oxide desiccant. Ferric oxide desiccant is slightly irritating, so if someone accidentally ingests it, just let them drink water to dilute it. Unless the patient deliberately takes a large amount and develops symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea, the possibility of iron poisoning must be considered and medical attention must be sought immediately.

Calcium oxide. Calcium oxide, which we usually call quicklime, is a white or grayish white block that has a strong ability to absorb moisture from the air. It is mostly used as a desiccant for food, clothing, and precision instruments. After absorbing water, it turns into powdered calcium hydroxide, which is commonly known as slaked lime. Once it turns into powder, it has no drying effect. If this desiccant is accidentally ingested, the calcium oxide will release heat when it turns into calcium hydroxide in water, which may burn the mouth or esophagus. At the same time, calcium hydroxide is alkaline and corrosive to the oropharynx and esophagus. If it splashes into the eyes, it can cause damage to the conjunctiva and cornea.

For friends who accidentally ingested desiccant, is desiccant toxic? It is recommended that we do not induce vomiting after ingesting it. Instead, we recommend that we take milk or water immediately. Generally, adults drink 240 ml of water, and children generally take 10 ml per kilogram of body weight. However, the total amount must be less than 200 ml. After all, drinking too much water may cause vomiting.