Sparky, keep us posted on the absorbent material. So far I had no need to use any type of absorbent material because I never had problems with my hives sweating. Since I am trying a new type of VIC that wicks moisture up through the top I might eventually consider an absorbent.
I was actually thinking of building some very simple cages to fit into my new VIC's that would hold absorbent material. The cage could be built out of 1/2" x 1/2" galv. wire to hold hay, paper, etc. It could also be 1/8" galv. mesh to hold other material such as wood shavings, cat litter (if that is acceptable), etc. The cage could be removed on a routine basis and replaced with new material. The absorbent cage perhaps could be installed in lew of the side insulation foam. The cage absorbent could act as a insulation. Just an idea.
To get back to my VIC discussion...I have attached some pics of what I would call my New KingVIC model! :evil:
***Basically it is the original ventilated inner cover with the following changes: 1-Front entrance/vent hole raised above VIC floor, 2-No front screened vent holes, 3-Rear vent holes replaced by a glass viewing area to keep track of interior temperatures and food quantity, 4-Fully insulated walls and top for northern winters with 1" foam insulation including aluminum backing, 5-Screened vent holes located only on both long sides, 6-Interior mounted thermometer.
Interior of the VIC showing the interior insulation, the rear glass view window and the wire coil which holds my 1/2 gal. Mason jar.
This pic shows the insulated top cover and the exterior view window with insulation in place.
Front view with top insulation and food jar in place. Telescopic cover fits on top.