What Does
Diatomaceous Earth Mean?
Diatomaceous earth is a type of naturally occurring soft siliceous sedimentary rock. Due to its softness, it can be crumbled or crushed to a white or off-white very fine powder-like siliceous substance that has several purposes, including as a polishing powder.
Diatomaceous earth may also be known as kieselguhr, DE diatomite, or diatomite.
Corrosionpedia Explains Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a light and soft sedimentary rock that is mostly soil consisting of siliceous diatoms, which are the remains of microscopic organisms.
The powder has several purposes, including:
- Polishing metal surfaces
- As filtering materials, such as in filter screens consisting of cellulose fibers
- An ingredient in toothpaste
- An ingredient in insecticides
- Coating preparation
- Reinforcing filler in rubber and plastics
The particle size of the powder produced from diatomaceous earth ranges from 10 to 200 micrometers. The composition of the powder is:
- Silica: 80% – 90%
- Alumina: 2% – 4%
- Iron oxide: 0.5% – 2%