I am working on a chemical reaction that requires anhydrous conditions, but I currently don't have molecular sieves. Is it possible if I use silica powder (after activation) to absorb moisture from the reaction, or will it affect the reactivity of my reactants (polar compounds), and if not, what are other alternatives that are safe to use in the reaction instead of molecular sieves
Emanuel Cooper
You can try, especially if the amount of water that needs to be absorbed is relatively small (as opposed to a reaction that generates water stoichiometrically). However, be prepared for surprises because activated silica catalyzes various reactions and may also interfere with your reaction by preferentially adsorbing an intermediate etc.
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