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Originally Posted by terracore
Just some observations:
There are different types of silica desiccants. Some can be "recharged" 5-10 times, some hundreds of times, and there is an industrial variety that cannot be reused. The rechargeable types can get contaminated and make them unable to be recharged. Also, overheating desiccant can reduce it's lifespan. If what you are trying to preserve is valuable, it may be a good idea to use new desiccant.
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I wasn't aware, before this, that there were several types of silica, but I was aware that there are some different kinds of desiccants.
As someone pointed out, salt and sugar can be used, and I recently found that a common desiccant people use in their homes (Damp Rid) is calcium chloride.
Quote:
Originally Posted by heavymind
I once had dealings with a person who saved all desiccant packs he found in packaging (like the type that come in shoe boxes) and threw them in his gun safe. I always thought there wasn't enough desiccant to really make a difference in that big of a space (5ft tall gun safe).
Is there any science to this?
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Reminds me of an old saying among engineers:
In theory, there is no difference between theory and practice, but in practice there is a difference.
Unless the gun safe seals like a refrigerator, those little packets aren't going to make a measurable difference. And even if it does, they might not make a measurable difference. If the room the safe is in is moist, I would suggest a dehumidifier. If it is in a closet that is rarely opened, some sort of desiccant might work.
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