Diatomaceous Earth
| Formula: | SiO₂ · nH₂O (Amorphous silica with water) |
| CAS Number: | 61790-53-2 (natural); 7631-86-9 (synthetic amorphous silica) |
| EC Number (EINECS): | 231-545-4 |
| HS Code: | 25085000 |
| UN Number: | Not classified as hazardous for transport |
| IUPAC Name: | Silicon dioxide (amorphous, from diatomite) |
| Also Known As: | Diatomite; Kieselguhr; Celite |
| Molecular Weight, g/mol: | Approx. 60.08 (per SiO₂ unit) |
Typical Specifications
| Appearance: | White to off-white fine powder |
| Odor: | Odorless |
| Melting Point, °C: | >1650 (decomposes to cristobalite) |
| Solubility: | Insoluble in water and organic solvents |
| Grades Available: | Natural, Calcined, Flux-calcined, Food Grade |
| Packaging: | 20kg/25kg bags, 500kg/1000kg jumbo bags |
Applications / Uses
Primary Applications
-
Filtration aid for beverages (beer, wine, juices), pharmaceuticals, and chemicals
-
Absorbent for oils, greases, and spills
-
Used as an inert carrier for pesticides and fertilizers
Secondary Applications
-
Mild abrasive in polishes, toothpaste, and facial scrubs
-
Functional filler in paints, plastics, and rubber
-
Natural insecticide for pest control (agriculture, household use)
End Industries Served: Food & Beverage, Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture, Chemicals, Plastics, Paints, Cosmetics, Environmental
Safety & Handling Information
Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous in natural form, but dust may cause health effects
Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
-
H332: Harmful if inhaled (dust)
-
H335: May cause respiratory irritation
-
H373: Prolonged inhalation may cause damage to lungs (if crystalline silica present in calcined grades)
Precautionary Statements (P-Codes):
-
P261: Avoid breathing dust
-
P280: Wear respiratory protection, gloves, and safety goggles
-
P304 + P340: IF INHALED – remove person to fresh air
-
P305 + P351 + P338: IF IN EYES – rinse cautiously with water
Storage Conditions
-
Store in cool, dry area
-
Avoid moisture and dust accumulation
-
Use proper ventilation in handling areas
Transport Information
-
ADR/RID: Not regulated
-
IMDG: Not regulated
-
IATA: Not regulated
Regulatory Information
-
REACH Status (EU): Registered
-
FDA Approval: Approved for food and beverage filtration (food grade)
-
ISO Certification: Available on request (ISO 9001, ISO 22000 for food grade)
-
Country Standards: Meets FCC, JECFA, BIS for food grade