Perlite

Perlite is an amorphous volcanic glass that has a relatively high water content, typically formed by the hydration of obsidian. It occurs naturally and has the unusual property of greatly expanding when heated sufficiently. It is an industrial mineral and a commercial product useful for its light weight after processing.

Perlite has a very low density and price, causing many commercial applications to develop for it. Perlite is an excellent filter aid and its popularity is increasing rapidly worldwide.

When it reaches a high temperature it softens, since it is glass. The material vaporizes and escapes causing the expansion to form a white color due to some of the trapped bubbles. When it is not expanded it is a bulky, dense material. It is a non-renewable resource and is found mostly in Greece. It is easy to come back and is cheap; its mostly used as ceiling tiles. Perlite is a non-renewable resource. The world reserves of perlite are estimated at 700 million tonnes. In horticulture, perlite can be used as a soil amendment or as a medium for hydroponics



Uses and Properties 1. inorganic, inert, and steryl 2. last for years and years 3. neutral pH 4. not toxic 5. stimulates plant growth 6. doesnt become soggy 7. holds moisture 8. insulator 9. free from disease weeds and insects

The price of perlite has increased over the past ten years almost doubling since 2001. The more uses that they find for perlite the more that the price will increase.