Perlite is an amorphous volcanic glass that has a relatively high water content, typically formed by the hydration of obsidian. It occurs naturally and has the unusual property of greatly expanding wh
Expanded horticultural perlite
Perlite boulders with fireweed in foreground
Perlite mine in Owens Valley, California.
Perlite mixed into potting compost
Diatomaceous earth, also known as diatomite, celite, or kieselgur, is a naturally occurring, soft, siliceous sedimentary rock that can be crumbled into a fine white to off-white powder. It has a parti
Perlite
…as a clay additive). It is also used by the explosives industry. Perlite is an excellent filtration aid and is used extensively as an alternative to diatomaceous earth. The popularity of perlite usage as a filter medium is growing considerably worldwide. Several products exist in the market to provide perlite based…
Diatomite rock sample from the Sisquoc Formation
Scanning electron micrograph of diatomaceous earth
c. 1900–1910 Diatomaceous earth pit at Neuohe
c. 1900–1910 a drying area: One firing pile is being prepared; another is under way.