Gel
| Also Known As | Hydrogel, xerogel (dried gel), silica gel, physical gel, chemical gel |
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What is Gel?
A colloid in which a liquid is dispersed within a solid or semi-solid matrix, forming a jelly-like substance. Gels have properties between a solid and a liquid. Examples include gelatin, agar, silica gel, and hydrogels used in biomedical applications.
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
A colloid in which a liquid is dispersed within a solid or semi-solid matrix, forming a jelly-like substance. Gels have properties between a solid and a liquid. Examples include gelatin, agar, silica gel, and hydrogels used in biomedical applications.
Gels are used in: food products (jellies, yoghurt, desserts), pharmaceuticals (topical gels, wound dressings, contact lenses), analytical chemistry (silica gel chromatography, polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis), cosmetics, and materials science (aerogels as ultra-lightweight insulators).
Acrylamide monomer (used to make polyacrylamide gels) is a potent neurotoxin and potential carcinogen. Always handle unpolymerised acrylamide in a fume hood with gloves. Silica gel dust is a respiratory irritant. Some food gels contain allergens (gelatin from animal sources).