The Diatomaceous Earth is a type of powder made from Diatomites, which are rough, porous fossilized mineral deposits formed near dried up water. The mineral is a result of dead single-celled algae called diatoms usually found in marine sediments.

 

Diatoms account for ¼ of all photosynthesis on Earth. The size of each diatom is about the width of a human hair (0.5 mm). While some diatoms float by themselves, many diatoms group together and form suspended chains near the surface of water or attach themselves to rocks or plants under water.

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Discovered around 1836 by Peter Kasten in Germany, diatomaceous earth was originally used to make dynamite. It now has dozens of uses including: metal polishes, toothpaste, pest control, water filters, home accessories among others.

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Diatoms produce 20-30% of the air we breathe

 

Through carbon fixation, diatoms remove carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. The CO2 is converted to organic carbon in the form of sugar, and oxygen (O2) is released. We breathe the oxygen that diatoms release.

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High in Silica (Quartz Mineral)

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Diatoms have hard shells that resemble tiny pill-shaped glass houses made from silica. Silica is one of the hardest solids on earth and can be found in glass and concrete. Silica makes up 26% of the earth’s crust by weight.

Diatomite deposits can be found all over the world, including notable extractions sites such as Neuohe in Germany.

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Absorbency Power

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Raw dry Diatomaceous Earth can absorb 1.5 to 3 times its weight in water. Processed Diatomaceous Earth can absorb up to six times its weight in water. So, It works miraculously fast to dry itself and absorb water. Millions of micropores in the diatomite surface cause the water to evaporate in a matter of seconds. The diatomaceous earth can hold up to 150% of its weight in water.

 

And now you can benefit from all the Diatomaceous Earth properties at home. The PISTACCHIO™ Stone Bath Mat will absorb the water after your shower or the water drained out of your dish rack and even the water that your pets splash in the feeding time.