In this study, two silica gels which had identical particle size distributions were found to have very different levels of effectiveness.
Silica gels are used for a variety of applications, the most common being as a dessicant found in packages in order to keep the contants dry.
Silica gels are also often used in Chromatography Column packing. Both the size and the shape of the silica have an effect on the quality and discrimination of the separation being performed.
Microscopic examination of the particles in the study showed that one batch was fairly round and smooth in shape, while the other had particles which were less round and rougher on the surface.
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