Perlite is a volcanic rock mined in open-pit quarries. The volcanic glass, or perlite, is formed when lava (molten rock) spews out of a volcano, and cools in a rapid manner. Because of rapid cooling, water is trapped within the rock, and the lava forms into a glass-like structure. Perlite contains 2 to 5 percent water and is a silicate rock, meaning it contains a “high percentage of silica (Si),”
Crude Perlite is further classified as per end-use and processed at temperatures between 800°C – 950°C, this will abrupt and controlled temperature causes the crystalline water content to change state from liquid to vapor causing the Perlite structure to “pop” and consequently become an extremely porous, lightweight (volume expanding between four and twenty times) and brilliant white mineral. Expanded Perlite offers many benefits due to its inert, fire-resistant, thermal and acoustic properties and is used in a range of industries including Oil & Gas, Construction and Horticulture to name a few.
Perlite
- Ultra-Light weight (low specific weight)
- Chemically inert
- Odorless
- Thermal insulation
- Environmentally friendly
- Sound proofing
- Easy to use Non – flammable
- Neutral PH
- Sterile, free of weeds, bacteria and pathogens
Horticultural Perlite is a 100% natural mineral, designed as physical soil enhancer & the ultimate growing medium for Horticultural applications:
Each particle of perlite is comprised of tiny closed air cells or bubbles. The surface of each particle is covered with tiny cavities which provide an extremely large surface area. These surface cavities trap moisture and make it available to plant roots. In addition, because of the physical shape of each particle or perlite, air passages are formed in the growing media thereby providing excellent aeration. Fertilizer appropriate to the plants being grown should be added. Horticultural perlite is available in several different grades. The coarse sand size has been used for many general gardening and horticultural applications, but the finer grades work best when used outdoors.
Perlite is hydrophilic by nature, but does not absorb moisture like a sponge. Instead, it attracts and holds moisture in three distinct ways: 1) in between individual grains, 2) in channels leading to the core of large particles, 3) on its rough surface.