Diatomaceous earth
Mineralogy
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a mineral silica that has an elaborate structure worked by nature into a labyrinth of tiny holes. No other silica source, whether mined or artificially produced, has such a structure. Each diatom is peppered with thousands of holes ranging from a few microns in diameter down to submicron diameters. The number and size of these holes vary with the species. It is the combination of the composition of natural silica, the structure of its diatom particles, and of the network of holes in that structure, that confers the unique properties of these multi-functional mineral products.
Diatomaceous earth is a sedimentary rock composed of the prehistoric skeletal remains of single-cell aquatic plants called diatoms. Most are fossilized and were deposited in the Miocene period, some 15 million years ago. Some deposits are from saltwater but most are from freshwater sources. The profusion of shapes results in an extremely low density diatomaceous earth powder, with excellent filtration characteristics.
Physical properties
- Unique 3D morphology and micro porosity
- 90% silica content
- High surface area and high absorption power
- Low specific and bulk density
- Chemically inert
- Hard
Applications
DE is an effective solution for improving matting, opacity and brightness of paint as well as for improving paint breathability, burnish, scrub and stain resistance, and barrier properties.
In cosmetics, ultra-absorbent diatomite-based powders are ideal 100 % natural ingredients in deodorants and antiperspirants. Used in face masks, diatomite significantly reduces the drying time of the clay.
