Diatomite is a soft siliceous sedimentary rock formed by the accumulation of the amorphous silica (opal, SiO2•nH2O) remains of dead diatoms (microscopic single-celled algae) in lacustrine or marine sediments. The fossil remains consist of a pair of symmetrical shells or frustules.
Lexically, “Diatomite” or “Diatomite soils” are the same. Muller is also a kind of Diatomite soil with plastic clays. Tripoli is the synonym for Diatomite, but Tripoli is some cases is a kind of fine silicate sediment that is applied as a grinder and it has no plant origin. In some regions in Libya and Algeria (near Tripoli port), Diatomite is mistakenly called Tripoli. In addition, “meerschaum” is sometimes used to describe Diatomite that is in fact a type of clay with fossil origin. Diatomite is basically applied as a kind of filter for the separation of suspended solids in liquid. In fact, more than 50% of Diatomite is applied. Diatomite is also used as a filter for different filtration industries including sugar factory, medicine filtration, alcohol drinks, raw sugar matter, antibiotics, urban water, swimming pool water, fruits, jet airplane fuel etc. The second major application of Diatomite is the filling matter in paint industry, papermaking, and grinders. Diatomite is used as the filler in paints in order to control transparency and shining. Another interesting issue about Diatomite is the low volumetric weight. As such, Diatomite is applied in those industries that require low volumetric weight in addition to the carton making industries in which Diatomite creates layer strength.
