FR1307 Humidity Indicator Card

Humidity Indicator Card (HIC) – Complete Guide

A Humidity Indicator Card (HIC) is a moisture-sensitive card designed to monitor humidity levels inside sealed packaging, storage, or shipping environments. These cards are widely used in electronics, semiconductors, military, and pharmaceutical industries to detect and prevent moisture damage to sensitive components.

1. What is a Humidity Indicator Card (HIC)?

A Humidity Indicator Card (HIC) is a color-changing paper card that provides a visual indication of the relative humidity (RH) levels within an enclosed environment. It is commonly used with Moisture Barrier Bags (MBBs) and Desiccants to ensure optimal dry storage conditions for electronic components, PCBs, IC chips, and medical products.

2. How Does a Humidity Indicator Card Work?

The HIC contains special moisture-sensitive spots that change color based on the relative humidity (RH) level inside the packaging.

Each spot represents a different humidity percentage (e.g., 10%, 20%, 30%, etc.).

As humidity increases, the indicator spots change color, usually from blue to pink or brown to green.

When used with Moisture Barrier Bags (MBBs) and Desiccants, it helps determine if moisture-sensitive components are being properly protected.

Example Color Change:

Dry Conditions: Blue/Brown (Safe)
High Humidity: Pink/Green (Risk of Moisture Damage)

3. Types of Humidity Indicator Cards

Cobalt-Free Humidity Indicator Cards

Environmentally friendly (RoHS compliant)
Uses cobalt-free chemicals for humidity detection
Safe for use in electronics and pharmaceuticals

Cobalt-Containing Humidity Indicator Cards

Traditional HIC with cobalt chloride
Changes from blue (dry) to pink (humid)
Highly accurate but regulated due to cobalt’s environmental impact

Reversible vs. Irreversible HIC

Reversible HIC: Changes back and forth depending on humidity fluctuations.

Irreversible HIC: Permanently changes color when a certain humidity level is reached, used for one-time exposure monitoring.

4. Key Features & Benefits of Humidity Indicator Cards

Real-Time Humidity Monitoring – Provides an instant visual check of moisture levels.
Helps Prevent Moisture Damage – Protects sensitive electronics and products from corrosion, oxidation, and delamination.
Cost-Effective & Simple to Use – No batteries or electronic sensors required.
Works with Moisture Barrier Bags & Desiccants – Ensures complete moisture control in sealed packaging.
RoHS & REACH Compliant Options – Safe for environmentally sensitive applications.

5. Common Applications for Humidity Indicator Cards

Electronics & Semiconductor Packaging

Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs)

Integrated Circuits (ICs)

Surface Mount Devices (SMDs)

Military & Aerospace Equipment Storage

Used in MIL-STD-2073 & MIL-I-8835 packaging standards

Pharmaceutical & Medical Products

Protects moisture-sensitive drugs and test kits

Optical & Precision Instruments

Prevents lens fogging and degradation of sensitive instruments

Automotive & Industrial Components

Ensures proper humidity control during shipping

6. How to Use a Humidity Indicator Card?

Place HIC inside the Moisture Barrier Bag (MBB) along with the desiccant and electronic components.
Seal the bag completely to maintain a controlled environment.
Check the indicator spots when opening the package:

Blue/Brown: Safe humidity level 

Pink/Green: Moisture exposure detected 

If high humidity is detected, replace the desiccant and reseal the bag immediately.

7. Industry Standards for Humidity Indicator Cards

JEDEC J-STD-033 – Standard for Moisture-Sensitive Devices (MSDs)
MIL-I-8835 & MIL-STD-2073-1D – Used in military and aerospace packaging
RoHS & REACH Compliant – Ensures environmental safety

8. Best Practices for Using Humidity Indicator Cards

Always store HICs in a dry, sealed container to prevent premature activation.
Use with Moisture Barrier Bags (MBBs) and Desiccants for maximum protection.
Choose the correct humidity range based on the sensitivity of your components.
Inspect cards upon opening – If humidity exceeds safe levels, replace desiccant and reseal.
Follow JEDEC guidelines for proper storage of moisture-sensitive devices.

9. Summary – Why Use a Humidity Indicator Card?

Prevents Moisture Damage to electronics, pharmaceuticals, and precision instruments.
Provides Instant Visual Feedback on humidity exposure.
Cost-Effective & Easy to Use – No power or sensors required.
Compatible with Moisture Barrier Bags & Desiccants for total moisture control.
Meets Industry Standards (JEDEC, MIL-STD, RoHS) for reliable quality.