silica gel is actually a dry solid that absorbs and holds water vapor. Silica Gel is typically found in “bead” form with the beads being contained by a porous packet material allows the beads to freely absorb moisture in the air.
Silica particles used in chromatography have a high surface area, a requirement for good analytical retention. ... They are available for analytical columns and high-, middle- and low-pressure preparative applications.
Silica sand is one of the most common varieties of sand found in the world. It is used for a wide range of applications. ... So silica sand is quartz that over the years, through the work of water and wind, has been broken down into tiny granules.
Silica gel is food safe. Food grade silica gel desiccants are safe to use to remove moisture from food. Silica gel will not change or permeate the food it's packed with. It is unregulated in most countries as silica gel is inert and not toxic.