Diatomite - Kieselgur
Diatomite, in Europe also known as "Kieselgur", is a white to light grey, soft, chalk-like mineral. This fossil shell flour is made up of silicic remains of diatoms (algae) sized approx. 10 µm up to 1 mm.
Due to its inner structure, this mineral is very light-weight with a high specific surface area resulting in exceptional properties.
Mineral Deposits
We
supply very high-quality diatomite from North Africa.
Deposits are extracted through surface mining.
Applications for Diatomite
Two particular features make diatomite unique: its degree of whiteness and its high specific surface area.
The following areas of application can be derived from these properties:
- Filtering agent in the beverage industry and other industries or for water treatment
- Extender for paints, varnish, plastics, rubber etc.
- Support agent for catalysts and chemicals such as explosives (dynamite) and insecticides
- Insulation material (building materials)
- Sorption agent (desiccant, cat litter etc.)
- Non-stick agent (fertilizer, plastics)
- Abrasive and polishing agent (for varnish and also tooth-pastes)
Photograph of the diatomite structure -
diatomites visible through an electron microscope