Perlite/Vermiculite 100ltr 50/50mix

What Is Perlite?

What is Perlite? Perlite is an extremely versatile inorganic mineral that once expanded is used extensively world wide for many different applications. Perlite is a natural occurring mineral in the form of siliceous rock, Perlite ore is found world wide with the best mines located in North America, Greece, Turkey, China and Northern Australia. When the perlite ore is heated at approximately 850⁰-900⁰C it expands up to 20 times its original volume, unlike many other volcanic glasses, making it perfect for use as perlite insulation. This expansion is caused by water that has been trapped within the ore (approximately 4% water content is trapped within the perlite ore) and the water is boiled off when evaporation occurs causing the ore to expand to its particular size. This process is much likened to the making of popcorn in your microwave (yet at a much higher temperature). In the expansion phase, the perlite ore changes from dark shades of black and grey to fluorescent, pearly white shades.

Perlite is a volcanic glass that’s prized in horticulture for its ability to aerate soil and improve drainage. It’s frequently juxtaposed with another gardening favourite: vermiculite. Though they’re commonly used interchangeably, each has its distinct advantages and applications. To get a clearer understanding of their contrasts and to determine which might be better suited for your garden, explore our comprehensive comparison in the article titled ‘Vermiculite vs. Perlite‘.

What is Vermiculite?

Vermiculite has been used in various industries for over 100 years and its occurrence as a natural mineral (hydrated phlogopite mica) dates back as far as 3.0 billion years old and it is one of the worlds’ most unique minerals. Some of the largest commercial mines in the world who are exclusive Vermiculite suppliers, are located in Southern Africa, Australia, China, Brazil and USA. Once the ore is mined and graded it is then subjected to a furnacing process which is also known as exfoliation. Exfoliation is a process where the ore is heated to approximately 800⁰C, at this point, water particles in the ore are boiled off and evaporated which then causes rapid expansion to form concertina Vermiculite particles.

Vermiculite is used for many expected and also many unexpected applications world wide. Exfoliators, suppliers of Premium Vermiculite have found their product is used in five main industries yet its use has seen rapid growth in many innovative applications.

• Horticulture
• Viticulture
• Agriculture
• Industrial
• Construction