Novel desiccants based on designed polymeric blends

We describe a novel concept for the preparation of desiccants based on poly meric blends. A hydrophilic channeling agent (e.g., PEG) is blended with a hydrophobic polymer (e.g., polypropylene) to produce interconnecting hydrop hilic channels within the hydrophobic polymer. To make the system desiccati ng, a water-absorbing material is blended into the polymeric matrix to beco me distributed within the hydrophilic portion. The resultant blend may be m olded and cast into plug-type inserts and liners for closed containers, or formed into films, sheets, beads, or pellets; its uses include pharmaceutic al and industrial applications. (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.