Uses of Perlite
Uses of perlite can be broken down into three general categories:
construction applications, horticultural applications and industrial applications.

1. Construction applications:

Because of perlite's outstanding insulating characteristics and lightweight, 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.

In horticultural applications, perlite is used throughout the world as a component of soiless 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 hydroponics' systems.

Other benefits of horticultural perlite are its neutral pH and the fact that it is sterile and weed-free. In addition, its lightweight makes it ideal for use in container growing. Other horticultural applications for perlite are as a carrier for fertilizer, herbicides and pesticides and for palletizing 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 houseplants.

Industrial applications for perlite are the most diverse, ranging from high performance fillers for plastics to cement 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.

Appearance: Dark Grey Granualar Material

Typical Chemical Analysis 

SiO2	74.32
TiO2	0.11
Al2O3	12.94
Fe2O3	0.77
CaO	0.69
MgO	0.08
Na2O	3.02
K2O	4.67 L.O.I. 3.38