Silica gel is a granular and porous form of silicon dioxide made synthetically from sodium silicate It is commonly used as a desiccant to control humidity and avoid spoilage or degradation of goods It works by adsorbing moisture from the air The material is non toxic and chemically inert It is often found in small packets inside product packaging such as electronics shoes and vitamins to keep them dry Silica gel can be regenerated by heating to remove the absorbed moisture It appears as small transparent or white beads but can sometimes be dyed in colors to indicate moisture levels