Basic Facts About Perlite

Perlite is not a trade name but a generic term for naturally occurring silicous 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 two to six percent combined water in the crude perlite rock. When quickly heated to above 1600°F (871°C), 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.

This expansion process also creates one of perlite's most distinguishing characteristics: its white color. While the crude rock may range from transparent light gray to glossy black, the color of expanded perlite ranges from snowy white to grayish white.

Expanded perlite can be manufactured to weigh as little as 2 pounds per cubic foot (32kg/m³) making it adaptable for numerous applications.

Since perlite is a form of natural glass, it is classified as chemically inert and has a pH of approximately 7.

Typical Physical Characterictics of Perlite

Color:	White
G.E. Brightness %:	70-80
Refractive Index:	1.47
Specific Gravity:	2.2-2.4
Apparent Density:	2.5-10.5 lb/ft3 or 40-170 KG/M3
Wet Density:	5-20 lb/ft3 or 80-320 kg/m3
pH:	neutral
MOHS Hardness:	5.5
Water Adsorption:	200-600 % by weight
Oil Adsorption:	50-100 grms oil/gms of perlite
Softening Point:	1800 F or 980 C
Moisture %:	lessthan 1.0 %
Ignition Loss (3 hr 1700 F):	1.5% maximum
Particle Size (mesh range):	20-200 U.S. Standard

Typical Chemical Analysis

TYPICAL ELEMENTAL ANALYSIS*
Silicone:	33.8
Aluminum:	7.2
Potassium:	3.5
Sodium:	3.4
Iron:	0.6
Calcium:	0.6
Magnesium:	0.2
Traces:	0.2
Oxygen (by Difference):	47.5
Net Total	97.0
Bound Water	3.0
Total %	100.0
* The analysis is shown in elemental form even though the actual forms present are mixed glassy silicates. Free silica may be present in small amounts. More specific information can be obtained from the ore supplier involved.

Expanded Perlite Use in Construction Applications

Because of perlite's outstanding insulating character-
istics 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 the 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 it is rot, vermin and termite
resistant perlite is also ideal for insulating low temperature and cryogenic vessels.

When perlite is used as an aggregate in concrete, a
lightweight, 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 Applications for Perlite

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 and swimming pools.

Additional applications include its use as an abrasive in soaps, cleaners and polishes and a variety of foundry applications utilizing perlite’s 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.

Expanded Perlite Use in Horticulture

In horticultural applications, perlite is used throughout the world as a component of soilless growing mixes where it provides aeration and optimum moisture retention for superior plant growth. For rooting cuttings, 100% perlite is used. Studies have shown that outstanding yields are achieved with perlite hydroponic systems.

Other benefits of horticultural perlite are its neutral pH and the fact that it is sterile and weed-free. In addition, its light weight makes it ideal for use in container growing.

Other horticultural applications for perlite are as a carrier for fertilizer, herbicides and pesticides and for pelletizing seed. Horticultural perlite is as useful to the home gardener as it is to the commercial grower. It is used with equal success in greenhouse growing, landscaping applications and in the home in house plants.

Origin and Characteristics

Typical Physical Characterictics of Perlite

Typical Chemical Analysis

Expanded Perlite Use in Construction Applications

Industrial Applications for Perlite

Expanded Perlite Use in Horticulture