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is Perlite organic?

J

JackTheGrower

So far I have not foubnd a manufacturing process reference but here is Wikipedia.


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From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Expanded PerlitePerlite is an amorphous volcanic glass that has a relatively high water content. It occurs naturally and has the unusual property of greatly expanding when heated sufficiently.

Contents [hide]
1 Properties and uses
2 Typical analysis of perlite
3 Value
4 See also
5 References
6 External links



[edit] Properties and uses
When it reaches temperatures of 850–900 °C, perlite softens (since it is a glass) and water trapped in the structure escapes and this causes the expansion of the material to 7–15 times its original volume. The expanded material is a brilliant white, due to the reflectivity of the trapped bubbles.
Unexpanded ("raw") perlite bulk density: around 1100 kg/m³ (1.1 g/cm³).
Typical expanded perlite bulk density: 30–150 kg/m³

Due to its low density and relatively low price, many commercial applications for perlite have developed. In the construction and manufacturing fields, it is used in lightweight plasters and mortars, insulation, ceiling tiles and filter aids. In horticulture it makes composts more open to air, while still having good water-retention properties; it makes a good medium for hydroponics. Perlite is also used in foundries, cryogenic insulations, as a lightweight aggregate in mortar (firestop) and in ceramics as a clay additive.


[edit] Typical analysis of perlite
70-75% silicon dioxide: SiO2
12-15% aluminium oxide: Al2O3
3-4% sodium oxide: Na2O
3-5% potassium oxide: K2O
0.5-2% iron oxide: Fe2O3
0.2-0.7% magnesium oxide: MgO
0.5-1.5% calcium oxide: CaO
3-5% loss on ignition (chemical / combined water)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perlite
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I'll keep looking..

Anyone know?
 

inflorescence

Active member
Veteran
I've never heard perlite is treated with chemicals.
What kind? Got a link?
I thought that since they were superheated they became sterile and they would just bag it then as to prevent any contamination.
Seems like treating it would cause the potential for more harm than good so I don't see a reason why they would treat perlite.
 
J

JackTheGrower

To be on the safe side I suggest washing the perlite before use.

Maybe this flush of the perlite could be some sort of priming of the perlite.

I mean if it holds water, after a good rinse, would it hold say, a solution of fish emultion and kelp?
Maybe some resadue even dry?


Pardon my rambling...


But yeah on the safe side rinse your perlite.


It may take some planning to do but.
 

Dan42nepa

Member
miracle grow perlite is treated. I have a bag which i bought and didnt notice until later. its says on the back of the bag, enriched with miracle grow plant food. I kept it because in a pinch i was going to rinse it several times in case i really really needed it.
 

Bigmone357

Active member
I've used packing peanuts B4 (everything else was organic) at the bottom of the pots for water drainage.The non dissolving kind worked great for me didn't effect the plants still great weed but I prolly wouldn't do it again.I had boxes full o peanuts & wanted to use em' lol trying to save on perlite :D.
 

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