Perlite is not a trade name but a generic term for naturally occurring siliceous rock. The distinguishing feature which sets Perlite apart from other volcanic glasses is that when heated to a suitable point in its softening range, it expands from four to twenty times its original volume.

This expansion is due to the presence of 2% to 6% combined water in the crude Perlite rock. When quickly heated to above 871 degrees Celsius, the crude rock pops in a manner similar to popcorn as the combined water vaporizes and creates countless tiny bubbles which account for the amazing light weight and other exceptional physical properties of expanded Perlite.

The expansion process also creates one of Perlites most distinguishing characteristics, its white colour. While the crude rock may range from transparent light grey to glossy black, the colour of expanded Perlite ranges from snowy white to greyish white.

Expanded Perlite can be manufactured to weigh as little as 32kg/m3 making it adaptable for numerous applications.

Perlite is an all-natural mineral with and indefinite shelf life. It is non-toxic and environmentally-friendly, superior quality, sterile, free of weeds and pathogens, clean, odourless, lightweight and safe to handle. Perlite is a form of natural glass, is classified as chemically inert and has a pH of approximately 7. (insert analysis and properties tables)

Horticulture

·         Clean and sterile - no diseases introduced, no sterilisation necessary

·         Lightweight and easy to handle

·         Does not deteriorate - lasts indefinitely, value for money

·         Does not compact thereby providing good aeration and drainage - ideal for long lasting plants

·         Due capillary lift it keeps supplying water and nutrients to other plants when a reservoir is used. This reduces management as plants don't have to be watered as often.

·         Prevents drying out as Perlite absorbs up to 5 times its own weight of water. A built-in safety factor

·         Provides good insulation to protect roots from extreme temperature fluctuations thereby minimising plant stress

Because of these properties, Perlite is an ideal medium for:

·         Propagation Mixes

·         Potting Mixes

·         Soil Conditioning

·         Hydroponics

·         Bulb Storage

·         Landscaping and Rooftop Gardens

 

 

Construction

In conclusion, Chillagoe Perlite provides a sterile and easy to manage substrate for any crop. It is very light weight, so easy and quick to setup, saving labour. Capital expenditure is low, as Perlite can be used on sloping or undulating sites. Irrigation timing is less critical than many systems, and, because it is completely inert, slat build up is never a problem.

Because of Perlites outstanding insulation characteristics and light weight, it is widely used as a loose fill insulation in masonry construction. In this application free-flowing Perlite loose-fill masonry insulation is poured into cavities of concrete block where it completely fills all cores, crevices, mortar areas and ear holes. In addition to providing thermal insulation, Perlite enhances fire ratings, reduces noise transmission and is rot, vermin and termite resistant. Perlite is also ideal for insulatinglow temperature and cryogenic vessels.

When Perlite is used as an aggregate in concrete, a light weight, fire resistant, insulating concrete is produced that is ideal for roof decks and other applications. Perlite can also be used as an aggregate in Portland cement and gypsum plasters for exterior applications and for the fire protection of beams and columns.

Other construction applications include under-floor insulation, chimney linings, paint texturing, gypsum boards, ceiling tiles and roof insulation boards.

Industrial

Industrial applications for Perlite are the most diverse, ranging from high performance fillers for plastics to cements for petroleum, water and geothermal wells. Other applications include its use as a filter media for pharmaceuticals, food products, chemicals and water for municipal systems in swimming pools.

Additional applications include its use as an abrasive in soaps, cleaners and polishers and a variety of foundry applications utilizing Perlites insulating properties and high heat resistance. This same heat resistant property is taken advantage of when Perlite is used in the manufacture of refractory bricks, mortars and pipe insulation.

Aqua Perl

Perlite has long been used as a filtering aid in the food processing and pharmaceutical industries. Over the past 10 years it has been found to be an extremely effective and safe material for use in the swimming pool industry. It is used world wide and designed for varied applications. The perlite filter powder has been specifically designed for D.E. type filter systems. Our careful processing ensures a high quality product that produces sparking clean pool water.

·         Superior Water Clarity

·         Longer Cycles Between Backwashes

·         Easier Release From Filter Screens

·         A Safe Alternative To Diatomaceous Earth (D.E.)

·         More Powder Per Kilogram