Montmorillonite Clay Desiccant

Montmorillonite clay desiccant is a naturally occurring mineral-based moisture absorbers originating from volcanic ash deposits. It has moderate capacity (typically 15-20% of its weight) for absorbing moisture, which occurs in interlayer spaces where water is trapped discretely between individual clay platelets. Montmorillonite clay resists water absorption through fairly extreme temperature ranges (-50°C to 200°C), is normally packaged in breathable paper sachets and is the best option in instances of high heat, where synthetic desiccant may fail. Additionally, montmorillonite clay is inert, non-toxic, dust-free, won’t harm delicate surfaces providing gentle protection.

Good applications for montmorillonite clay desiccant are in packaging requiring natural materials and exposed to extreme thermal demands. Typical uses of montmorillonite clay desiccant include auto parts, leather goods, archival documents, and long term storage of industrial grade equipment. Montmorillonite clay desiccant could be attractive to organizations looking for sustainability through reliable and low maintenance passive humidity control, including reusability at 120°C and cost effectiveness for use under bulk applications. Montmorillonite clay desiccant is safe for food packaging; it was formally registered with the FDA as a substance complying with FDA 21 CFR 175.300 “indirect food contact.”

Applications of Montmorillonite Clay Desiccant

Packaging & Transportation

Montmorillonite clay desiccant offers dependable moisture protection for temperature-sensitive cargo shipments. The natural mineral composition absorbs moisture over 15-20% and supports extreme environments (-50°C to 200°C) that destroy synthetic alternatives. The Tyvek® sachet construction mitigates mold growth and corrosion of electronic devices and machinery and archive shipments and will not produce dust. The property of the clay is layered and provides humidity with control that is time-based making the clay ideal for multi-modal transport through various climates. Montmorillonite clay is a reusable product after low-temperature reactivation (120°C) and will provide sustainable moisture and humidity protection for high-value products without contaminating, the product.

Food Industry

In terms of dry food packaging, montmorillonite clay is proper FDA compliant moisture control via indirect food contact. This ingredient offers protection for dry foods like grains, spices and dehydrated foods during secondary packaging, while allowing for the right humidity without chemical migration as a result of being a non-toxic desiccant. This non-toxic desiccant not only disallows contamination, but it also suppressed mold production and clumping while in storage. The thermal stability of montmorillonite clay means that it will still work while pasteurizing or sterilizing for food safety. Furthermore, as a natural mineral, montmorillonite clay fits with the clean-label trend by providing sustainable options to eco-friendly brands for sustainable shelf life options in paperboard, foil, or most multi-layer packages.

Automotive Industry

This desiccant protects automotive assets while in warehouse and transit. It is specifically designed for brake pads, air filters and gaskets, protecting moisture-related degradation even in hot conditions when used in proximity to the engines. The non-abrasive particles in the clay do not affect the polished parts of metal parts, it is stable over temperature (-50ºC to 200ºC) and works effectively in conditions ranging from the manufacturing ovens to the arctic. As a dust free operation the parts are not tainted or contaminated with dust. Being reusable also reduces the waste frequently experienced in conjunction with lean manufacturing principles, you will be more aligned with circular economy flows. This product is a plausible solution for JIT supply chains that demand economical humidity control with virtually no maintenance.

Apparel & Textiles

Montmorillonite clay protects fine textiles and leather goods while in storage and transportation. Its low and slow moisture absorbance helps mitigate mildew from developing from natural fibers such as cotton, wool, and silk and will not leave behind unwanted residues. Non-dust properties mean the most delicate items and special couture finishes are protected. Breathing sachets which can be placed comfortably into garment folds or shoeboxes. The mineral composition of the desiccant means there are no harmful chemical odors which could be transferred to luxury items. Reusable (reactivated by putting them in the oven) means they provide sustainable protection for your seasonal storage of heirloom textiles, designer collections and other specialty footwear.