Ecoperlite

About Perlite

Perlite is a naturally occurring volcanic rock that cools and transforms into glass after an eruption. This volcanic glass was originally referred to as “obsidian” after its discoverer, Obsidius. In 1822 Bedan referred to the glasses as “perlites” for their similarity with pearl stones. The distinguishing feature, discovered in 1886, that sets perlite apart from other volcanic rocks, is that when heated to a certain temperature it swells from 4 to 20 times its initial volume. This expansion is due to the presence of 2-6 % of combined water in the crude perlite rock. This expansion process also creates one of perlite's most distinguishing characteristics: its white color. The Soviet scientists had always shown deep interest in the product; however it was only in 1940s and in the US that swelled perlite production began and extended to other countries, such as China, Greece, Japan, Hungary, Armenia, Italy, Mexico, Philippines, New Zealand, Turkey and Russia. Today annually 25 million m3 of swelled perlite is produced in the world and used in more than 150 spheres of life. The United States is estimated to be the largest consumer and producer of crude and expanded perlite (7 million m3 annually).

Physical properties of perlite rock
Specific gravity, g/cm	3		2.3
Organic admixtures			absent
Compressive strength, kg/cm		2	180 to 700
Water absorption,%			3 to10
Porosity,%			8 to 36

Chemical properties
pH (10% suspension)	7.2 to 7.8
Composition in %
SiO2	72.60 to 74.84
Al2O3	13.37 to 13.64
Fe2O3	0.54 to 0.97
CaO	0.45 to 0.97
MgO	0.20 to 0.26
Na2O	3.77 to 3.95
K2O	3.95 to 4.19
TiO2	0.02 to 0.05
Loss in ignition	2.00 to 5.00

Health effects

Studies have demonstrated that perlite is absolutely safe for people in its all uses. It does not cause allergic reactions or skin irritation, does not modify the climate of the territory and is not radioactive. The quality of the mined crude ore is checked and supervised in a special laboratory, and the quality of the final product complies with all international safety requirements. The production process of EcoPerlite Ltd Co is ecologically safe: cleaning is carried out several times with gas-cleaners. The technological cycle is closed, without waste and the products are also ecologically clean and safe.