PERLITE

Uses: Absorbent, hydroponics, ceramics and lightweight construction materials

Perlite is a volcanic aluminosilicate glass with an internal structure consisting of numerous tiny closed air cells.  It has the unusual property of expanding greatly when it is heated.  At 850 – 900°C, perlite softens and water trapped inside its structure escapes.  This causes the material to expand to many times its original volume, and its bulk density falls from around 1100 kg/m³ to 90 – 110 kg/m³.  Expanded perlite is white due to the reflectivity of the trapped bubbles.

Typical Chemical Analysis

SiO₂ … 73%

Al₂O₃ … 15%

K₂O … 5%

Na₂O … 3%

Fe₂O₃ … 2%

CaO + MgO … 1%

Others … 1%

Organic Matter … Nil

Moisture … Nil (when packed)

Typical Physical Properties

Bulk Density … 90 – 110 kg/m3

Colour … White

pH … 6.5 – 7.5

Typical Sieve Analysis

Passing 4.75mm … 80 – 100%

Passing 3.35mm … 35 – 60%

Passing 2.36mm … 5 – 20%

Passing 1.70mm … 0 – 10%

Typical Performance Characteristics

Absorbency … >200%

Perlite is available in 100 litre sacks.

For further information please contact us.

RS Minerals Ltd

23 Allerston Way, Guisborough

Cleveland TS14 6GA

United Kingdom

Tel 01287 631530

Fax 01287 637274

International Tel 00 44 1287 631530

Fax 00 44 1287 637274

info@rsminerals.co.uk