Uses of Diatomaceous Sediments

Filters

• Diatomaceous sediment is commonly used for filtration purposes. It can be found in swimming pools for the purpose of catching unwanted particles, oils and grease. The fine particles of the sediment can also be used to filter and purify fish tanks, alcoholic beverages and drinking water. The shape of the particles of the diatomaceous sediment has the ability to trap particles while passing through drainage systems without clogging them.

Absorbing

• Because diatomaceous sediment is highly absorbent, it has been used to collect wastes from environmental spills. The United States Center for Disease Control, or CDC, has used and recommends the use of diatomaceous sediment to absorb toxic and other dangerous spills. The sediment has also been used to absorb wastes in cat litter and to draw out facial oil in masks and peels.

Pests

• Diatomaceous sediment has been used as a pesticide because of its absorption abilities. Since it is physico-sorptive, the particles of diatomaceous sediment can draw moisture from the outer layer, or exoskeletons, of many insects. This causes the insects to dehydrate and, eventually die from lack of water. Insects like slugs (although they have no exoskeletons, they are susceptible to water pressure deficiency), cockroaches and fleas are particularly subject to the dehydrating qualities of the sediment.

Soil Substitute

• Some potted plants thrive because of the use of diatomaceous sediment instead of or in addition to traditional soil. Because diatomaceous sediment retains both water and necessary minerals and nutrients, plant growth increases and health is maintained. Diatomaceous sediment is often used to grow Bonsai trees because they require much more oxygen than other potted plants and trees.