Perlite is a siliceous glassy volcanic rock that will expand when heated at varying temperatures of 900o to 1100o degrees Celsius. This industrial mineral is used primarily in the following industries : construction, insulation, filtration and horticulture. Perlite is neutral and does not contain any nutrients, has no buffer effect, nor has the capacity of cationic exchange.

The low density and porous texture of expanded perlite, combined with its low thermal conductivity, remarkable soundproofing capacity, and neutral chemical properties justify its wide use and commercial value .

Expanded perlite characteristics

Physical appearance of perlite

Perlite varies in color from white to grey. Perlite is odorless and cannot be compacted. Perlite is not flammable and non-explosive. Perlite is organic, chemically inert, and has a neutral pH level of 6.5 to 7.5.
Perlite comes in granules of different size and density :
· fine perlite (0-2 mm)
· medium perlite (1-3 mm)
· horticultural perlite (2-5 mm)

Horticultural Applications

In horticultural applications, perlite is used throughout the world as a component of soil's growing mixes where it provides aeration and optimum moisture retention for superior plant growth. For rooting cuttings, 100% perlite is used. Studies have shown that outstanding yields are achieved with perlite hydroponics systems.

Other benefits of horticultural perlite are its neutral pH and the fact that it is sterile and weed-free. In addition, its lightweight makes it ideal for use in container growing.

Other horticultural applications for perlite are as a carrier for fertilizer, herbicides and pesticides and for pelletizing seed. Horticultural perlite is as useful to the home gardener as it is to the commercial grower. It is used with equal success in greenhouse growing, landscaping applications and in houseplants.

Industrial applications

Industrial applications for perlite are the most diverse, ranging from high performance fillers for plastics to cement for petroleum, water and geothermal wells. Other applications include its use as a filter media for pharmaceuticals, food products, chemicals and water for municipal systems and swimming pools.

Additional applications include its use as an abrasive in soaps, cleaners and polishes, and a variety of foundries applications using perlite's insulating properties and high heat resistance. This same heat resistance property is taken advantage of when perlite is used in the manufacture of refractory, mortars and pipe insulation.

Summary of applications for perlite

• Horticulture
• Hydrophobic
• Abrasive
• Absorption
• Fillers
• Oil well treatments
• Light-weight aggregate construction
• Feed/Litter
• Cryogenics
• Fire and thermal insulation
• Filtration
• Other

Perlite Canada inc. can offer you a superior quality product to meet your specific requirements.For more information, and for orders, please contact at head office :

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