What are the differences between industrial diatomite and natural diatomite?

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Diatomite is formed from the deposited remains of diatoms, which are single-celled aquatic plants. The unique property of this diatom is its ability to absorb free silicon in water to form its skeleton; once it dies, it settles down, and under certain geological conditions, this results in the formation of diatomite deposits. Diatomite is a non-metallic mineral, whose main chemical component is amorphous silica. Under a microscope, diatomite appears in various shapes resembling algae; the size of each individual cell ranges from a few micrometers to several dozen micrometers. Its inner and outer surfaces are covered with numerous nanoscale pores, which is the fundamental physical characteristic that distinguishes diatomite from other non-metallic minerals. Diatomaceous earth possesses special properties such as a porous structure, low density, large specific surface area, strong adsorption capacity, good suspension ability, stable physicochemical properties, sound and heat insulation, wear resistance, acid resistance, and being non-toxic and odorless. Therefore, diatomite and its products are widely used. In the diatomite-based wall coating industry, the raw materials used are nothing other than calcined diatomite and uncalcined diatomite; one type is industrial-grade diatomite, which is purified through high-temperature calcination to be used in the production of such wall coatings. Another type of diatomite is natural diatomite that is used to create diatomite plaster; in other words, it is diatomite that has not been calcined, which is why it is called uncalcined diatomite plaster. It is the diatomite that is mined in general; due to its high content of impurities, it contains small amounts of clay impurities such as montmorillonite and kaolinite, as well as organic matter. Since it is usually extracted from underground deposits, its color is light gray or light brown. This poses significant challenges when it comes to color adjustment, which is why it must be calcined until it turns white before it can be reused. However, the white diatomite at the back is a natural surface mineral; its color is not very white, but it has no impact on color adjustment or the development of diatomite-based products. The above is all the information shared by Jilin Yuantong Diatomite Manufacturer. If you would like to learn more about food-grade diatomite, calcined diatomite, diatomite filter aids, diatomite manufacturers, diatomite companies, and other related topics, please visit our official website