DIATOMITE

Student: Espinoza Castro, Franco

Eduardo
Code: 20102662G

It is a siliceous rock of sedimentary origin, mainly consists of fossilized

remains of diatoms. Diatomite represents a unique form of silica.
Diatomite is extremely porous, low conductivity of heat and
electricity, chemically inert, able to absorb and retain lots of fluids.
Pure diatomite is formed of opaline silica or water, wherein small
amounts in solid solution associated inorganic components (alumina,
iron, alkaline earth, alkali metal, ...)
The most important deposits in the world are characterized by
deposits of the dry type.
Varieties:

Tripolite

Bann Clay

Moler Clay

Features and Applications

Filtration

It is used as an aid in the filtration and purification for the

clarification of a variety of liquids.

Filled

Isolation

As raw material for the insulating structures of heat and cold.

Absorbent

It occurs in multiple processes: chemical disinfectants,

dynamite cartridges, industrial floor cleaners.

Smoothness

The action of the abrasive component is diatomite in

formulating cleaners and polish gloss automobile.
Origin and geological formation
Diatomite is a rock formed by shells of microscopic single - celled
algae size (plants that appeared in the transition from the Cretaceous
to Tertiary). The shells formed by opal (amorphous silica) suffered

compaction. When raised above water level, exposed to leaching and

erosion generated sediment deposits are of current interest.
The abundance of Diatomite in Peru is linked to the large
hydrothermal activity during the Tertiary and early Quaternary, which
provided input to the shells of diatoms.
Exploitation in Peru
The exploitation of Diatomite is given by manual methods and
grinding, mainly as a filler or insulation sector. Domestic consumption
of diatomite is distributed between the brewing industry and sugar.
National reserves
An estimated reserves are around Diatomite billion tons, of which
about 85 million are in the area called Cueva del Inca.
Rich rocks marine diatoms abound in the departments of Ica, Piura
and Tumbes.
Deposits with lacustrine diatoms are known in the departments of
Cajamarca, Ancash, Junn, Ayacucho, Cuzco and Arequipa.
Security Considerations
It can provide dry hands, if management is given without
gloves.

The use of m to masks is recommended during the handling of

diatomaceous earth (because it can cause pulm or n dusty).

Diatomite quarries in Peru by Regions (2006)