Desiccators are laboratory containers designed to protect moisture-sensitive materials from humidity and atmospheric moisture. They create a controlled, low-humidity environment that helps preserve samples, chemicals and instruments that could otherwise degrade or react when exposed to moisture. Desiccators are commonly used in chemistry, pharmaceutical, research and educational laboratories where maintaining sample integrity is essential.
At Hurst Scientific, we supply desiccators that support safe storage and sample protection in professional laboratory environments. Our range is suited to laboratories that require dependable equipment for moisture control during storage, cooling or preparation processes.
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Desiccators are sealed laboratory vessels used to store moisture-sensitive samples, chemicals, and equipment in a low-humidity environment. By maintaining dry conditions using a desiccant material, desiccators protect samples from atmospheric moisture that could affect their stability, weight, or chemical integrity.
At Hurst Scientific, we supply desiccators and desiccant materials to analytical, research, and teaching laboratories across Australia.
Standard Glass Desiccators are the traditional choice for laboratory use. Made from borosilicate glass with a ground-glass lid and a perforated porcelain plate to support samples above the desiccant bed, they provide an effective and chemically inert storage environment for sensitive materials.
Polycarbonate (Plastic) Desiccators offer the same functionality as glass models but with greater impact resistance, making them a practical option in environments where glass breakage is a concern. Lightweight and transparent for easy visibility of contents.
Vacuum Desiccators allow the internal atmosphere to be evacuated using a vacuum pump, further reducing moisture and accelerating drying of samples. Commonly used in analytical chemistry and materials science applications.
Desiccators are used in conjunction with a desiccant material placed in the base of the vessel. Common desiccants include silica gel (the most widely used general-purpose desiccant), anhydrous calcium chloride for high-capacity moisture absorption, and phosphorus pentoxide for applications requiring extremely low humidity.
Silica gel desiccant with a colour indicator changes from blue (active) to pink (saturated) when its moisture capacity is exhausted, providing a visual indicator that the desiccant needs replacement or regeneration.
How do I know when to replace the desiccant? With indicator silica gel, the colour change from blue to pink signals saturation. Silica gel can be regenerated by heating in an oven at 120°C for several hours until the blue colour returns. Non-indicator desiccants should be replaced or regenerated on a scheduled basis.
What size desiccator do I need? Desiccator size is selected based on the number and size of items to be stored. Standard sizes are described by the internal diameter of the bowl, commonly ranging from 150mm to 300mm. Contact our team if you need help selecting the right size.
Can desiccators be used in a vacuum oven? Vacuum desiccators with the appropriate stopcock are specifically designed for vacuum applications. Standard desiccators are not rated for vacuum use — always use a vacuum-rated desiccator when connecting to a vacuum pump.
Can I order desiccant separately? Yes. Hurst Scientific supplies desiccant materials, including silica gel. Contact us for product availability and pricing.
Hurst Scientific supplies desiccators and desiccant materials to laboratories across Australia, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, and Adelaide. Browse our range below or contact our team for assistance.
Desiccators function by housing samples in a sealed chamber alongside a desiccant material, such as silica gel or other drying agents. The desiccant absorbs moisture from the surrounding air, creating a dry internal atmosphere that protects sensitive materials. This environment is particularly useful for storing hygroscopic substances, cooling heated samples without moisture exposure, or maintaining dry conditions before weighing samples during analytical procedures.
Desiccators are typically manufactured from glass or durable plastic materials and may include features such as airtight lids, internal plates and vacuum compatibility, depending on the model. Choosing the right desiccator depends on factors such as sample size, required drying conditions and laboratory workflow. Hurst Scientific offers desiccators that integrate easily into standard laboratory processes and support consistent moisture control.
Hurst Scientific is an Australian-owned supplier supporting laboratories across the country with quality laboratory equipment and consumables. All desiccators in this category are available for online ordering with Australia-wide delivery, backed by knowledgeable local support. If you require assistance selecting the right desiccator for your laboratory, our team can provide guidance to help you choose a suitable solution for your application.
