Perlite: A Versatile Mineral for Agriculture and More
Perlite, a mineral of volcanic origin, stands out for its lightness and thermo-acoustic properties, thanks to its high concentration of water molecules and its porous structure. This material, in addition to being an efficient natural insulator, is processed with minimal environmental impact, preserving the qualities of the natural mineral: chemically neutral, inert, non-combustible, non-toxic, insoluble and non-hygroscopic.
Industrial Uses of Perlite
Expanded perlite has multiple applications in industry, thanks to its versatility:
- Cryogenics : It is used as an insulator in low or very low temperature systems, ideal for insulating LNG and noble gas tanks in a cryogenic state.
- Construction : In mortars and refractory elements, perlite is used for its resistance up to 850 ºC, being essential in the construction and lining of ovens and as a grip material.
- Insulation and Fire Protection : It is used in the manufacture of mortars, plates, and fire protection systems, especially in the petrochemical industry.
- Filtration : As a filtering agent, perlite does not alter the flavor, color, or odor of liquids, being essential in the filtration of beer, wine, water, oils and chemicals.
- Textile Industry : Replaces pumice stone in textile washing, preventing premature wear of fabrics.
La Perlita in Agriculture
In the agricultural sector, perlite has become an essential component due to its unique properties:
- Substrates and Peat : When mixed with organic substrates, perlite improves aeration and maintains its structure unchanged over time, regulating water consumption.
- Hydroponics : It is the most important material for soilless cultivation, facilitating outstanding crops thanks to its water retention and aeration capacity.
- Animal Nutrition : Acts as a binding and coagulant agent in the preparation of feed additives, improving the adsorption of nutrients, fatty acids, vitamins and antibiotics.
Importance in Construction
In addition to its use in agriculture and industry, perlite is essential in construction, being a basic ingredient in lightweight gypsum mortars and sprayable single-layer mortars, thanks to its lightness and insulating properties.
Conclusion
Perlite, due to its versatile and sustainable nature, has established itself as an invaluable resource in various sectors, especially in agriculture, where its benefits for soil and soilless cultivation stand out. Its ability to improve aeration and water retention in substrates, together with its contribution to animal nutrition and its wide use in industry and construction, underline the importance of this mineral in the development of sustainable and efficient practices. At Mineravi.com, we recognize the value of perlite as an essential ally in the search for innovative and sustainable solutions for agriculture and beyond.