The planet earth has been characterized by the continuous changes in climatic conditions and the evolution of the geological era, motivating the displacement of the earth's surface, generating natural environments rich in various minerals, therefore, the different sources of oil, lagoons of salt, mineral basins, among others. In this case we will learn about diatomaceous earth, a natural resource rich in silicon and calcium with different applications today.
diatomaceous earth
The planet earth has always stood out for being a source of natural resources that man has exploited for the development of daily life and the evolution of society, allowing the acquisition of goods that favor the continuous advancement of man, some of these resources They are known as diatomaceous earth, which represents a natural source of silicon that is widely used today.
Diatomaceous earth consists of a type of resource that originates from the fossilization of unicellular algae (it has a single cell in its entire system) being covered by a layer of silica. In a few words, it is that result from the fossilized skeletons of microscopic algae that have a silica cover, this type of material originates at the bottom of the sea and is usually stored there for millions of years.
These algae are known as diatoms, it consists of a group of unicellular algae that are composed of photosynthesizing microorganisms composed mainly of phytoplankton. This type of algae can be found in any body of water (marine or fresh) and even on some wet land surfaces. They have the presence of an exoskeleton of mineral origin rich in silica, with the passage of time they compact and generate a different type of surface.
Like the different organisms, plants and animals, algae have a food chain preferably in silica that is later transformed into organic silica. Until they form a siliceous sedimentary rock that is composed of diatom microfossils. Those diatomites found in freshwater environments are preferably in mine environments of dry lake beds, they have a low crystalline silica content; while those located in saltwater environments have a higher concentration of crystalline silica.
Diatoms have an amorphous structure, that is, it is a solid compound that has a disordered atomic structure, it is found at great depths of the earth due to its occupations millions of years ago, when the great expanses of water covered the entire planet. land, with the passing of the years and geological evolution, tectonic movements began that caused the emergence of a larger land surface and certain areas were buried until they became fossilized, causing all the organic content to disappear and the material to remain inert deposited, with Over time, the deposits of these minerals that are located today were formed.
The origin of diatomaceous earth is biogenic, with unique mineral properties such as the silicon exoskeleton, which gives it properties only seen in this type of solid. At present, numerous studies have been carried out for its use of this compound, standing out as a fertilizer due to its opaline silica cell wall (hydrated silicon dioxide). When visualized by a microscope, it can consist of asymmetrical parts that give it its special properties, which is why it is commonly applied in orchards for domestic purposes; It also has application as a pet dewormer, guaranteed to be harmful to animal species.
Diatomaceous earths have a white color so they can be confused with white earth and this is attributed to their high content of organic silicon and calcium. According to the fossil finds it is suggested that the Diatoms present their origin during or after the early Jurassic. Representing a key source of information for the study of environmental conditions, climate change and evolution of land surfaces.
Natural and Ecological Insecticide
Diatomaceous earth acts as an insecticide powder, because it is innocuous, being formed by fossilized algae, it constitutes it as a type of ecological and natural material, not having any negative impact on the applied soil and not attacking the plant species present. . It also has filtration properties allowing the water present to be drained correctly and avoid accumulations.
Acting as a natural insecticide that is not poisonous to plant species, but has a different behavior in insects, because the silica particles can generate lesions in the digestive tract, injuring them to the point of death, for this reason it is used to exterminate to pests that harm crops and orchards such as cochineal, whiteflies, spiders, among others. It is currently considered that diatomaceous earth can kill more insects than any other chemical product and its use is recommended as it has less environmental impact.
It behaves as a fertilizer, they provide the necessary nutrients to replenish the soil and promote plant growth. Being used for the cultivation of different plant species also in organic gardening, so they are seen in the application of interior areas of homes.
Types of Diatomaceous Earth
Diatoms are formed by phytoplankton compacted in unicellular algae thousands of years ago, being present in various water currents such as seas, oceans, rivers, lakes and lagoons. With the passing of time due to tectonic movements and the drying up of the bodies of water, settlements arose at the bottom of them, until they accumulated in layers. Currently there are deposits of these lands where it is considered that some sea or lake existed before, being extracted and applied for various purposes according to the type of diatomaceous earth, the two main ones are described below:
Calcined Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earths are subjected to calcination processes, causing the particles to crystallize and present ideal filtration properties, therefore, they are used for the production of materials with a porous purpose such as filters. It can turn out to be a dangerous product for humans and animals, being consumed or even continuous exposure and without adequate security.
Diatomaceous earth in this case are subjected to high temperatures until they are calcined, converting the amorphous silica that is surrounding the unicellular algae into crystalline silica, in short, the heating subjection causes an atomic rearrangement that allows it to acquire crystalline properties. This type of purchased product is a material that is impossible to process by living organisms, becoming toxic and poisonous. Being used continuously causes silicosis (disease caused by the deposition of silica dust in the lungs) therefore, it is recommended to use the appropriate safety measures such as gloves and masks.
This type of component is very toxic due to its high lead content, therefore it cannot be used as an insecticide, in which case it is recommended to use natural powdered diatomaceous earth. If the calcined product is present, it is only for industrial purposes, mainly for those companies that carry out product manufacturing processes with porous functions.
Uses
Calcined diatomaceous earths are those that are subjected to high temperatures and cause their total calcination, they are considered toxic and of limited use, but their applications of this type of material are focused on industrial purposes, the most common ones will be highlighted below:
- Swimming pools
It consists of an artificial water reservoir that is normally used for recreational and sports purposes, usually presenting small dimensions (homes and gardens) or large dimensions (sports centers). Water maintenance systems must be used, in this case calcined diatomaceous earth filter systems stand out, characterized by trapping the impurities present. Allowing to maintain an optimal condition of the water, free of fungi and bacteria.
- Absorbs Industrial Liquids
It is a type of material present in the hydrocarbon and oil industries such as oil and all those related to its derivatives, due to its porous properties that absorb polymeric substances and high molecular weight, essential to be used in case of spills or retention of heavy metals.
Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth
In this case, the diatomaceous earth is not subjected to any calcination process that alters its composition, maintaining its natural state with an amorphous structure and its innocuous qualities that do not alter the environment, nor are they harmful to the health of living beings ( humans, plants and animals). Being the most sought after to be used in crops and treatment for pets.
Highlighting the organic silicon has been processed by the algae, allowing ease of handling, also has a total of 40 mineral nutrients, where 6 are considered primary elements (silicon, aluminum, potassium, iron, calcium, phosphorus, among others) and 13 are secondary trace elements (sulfate of lime, calcium carbonate, among others). Considering as a compound rich in nutrients to be used in crops and soils.
It does not present resistance to insects, unlike other types of insecticides where crop pests usually generate some type of resistance to the chemical components of common insecticides, on the other hand, diatomaceous earth, being a natural organic product, causes them not to resist. and can be totally eliminated. The behavior of this product is imperceptible to the insect, causing it to adhere, absorbing all the water that it is composed of until it is exterminated.
In the same way, strict care must be maintained in its handling, taking the necessary measures such as masks, glasses and gloves. In this way, the least exposure of the eyes, nose and hands is maintained; because the silicon present can cause irritation and health complications.
Applications in Agriculture
Food grade diatomaceous earths are used mainly for agricultural purposes, coming to play different roles from crop fertilizers, insecticides from pests present and protection of all grains sown. Each of its main functions is described below:
- pesticide
It consists of an insecticide par excellence in the form of ecological powder that is responsible for controlling the pests that are present in crops such as aphids, mealybugs, red spiders, whiteflies, snails, slugs, ants, nematodes and caterpillars; having an immediate action and not leaving harmful residues for the plants and the soil. In case of being used as pesticides, it is necessary to sprinkle diatomaceous earth on the affected plants, recommending to generate a film that acts preventively.
Normally the dose used consists of a mixture of substrate with diatom being spread at 40 to 50 grams per square meter; In case of being used in spray form, it is recommended to use 40 grams per liter of water.
- Fertilizer
It consists of a compound that acts as a natural fertilizer for farmland, providing nutrients such as calcium, silicon, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, necessary for the effective growth of crops, as well as being very beneficial for the soil. allowing an effective cation exchange, facilitating the absorption of nutrients in the soil, improving soil aeration and water retention.
Other apps
Diatomaceous earth is a type of material that is easy to handle and important in various areas of the chemical and petrochemical industry, currently they are part of numerous operational processes, but some can be used for various agricultural and domestic purposes. The main applications that they can have are highlighted below:
- Crop Fertilization
Its main application lies in being a type of biodegradable product, respectful of the environment, being capable of regenerating soils and being reusable. Due to this, it is considered as a fertilizer par excellence, used as an additive in conventional fertilizers, in addition to being composed of a wide variety of elements such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, calcium and silicon. Allowing the effective development of plants and soil conservation.
- Pest control
It has insecticide and biocide properties used against pests in crops that are seriously affected or as a preventive treatment. Presenting the advantages of not using chemical substances that generate resistance among bacteria and generate health problems, it is normally used in external affected areas (grounds with bacteria) and interiors (cupboards, refrigerator floors, windows).
- Reflective Property
It is used in a sprayed form on different lands, generating a thin layer around the plants, its function being sun protection and high temperatures that can cause damage to plants and reduce constant soil erosion.
- Grain Protection
When the grains are collected after being cultivated, they must be stored and it is possible that some pests that have adhered to the grain may appear, therefore, to avoid this type of circumstance, it is advisable to apply a little of this substance in the cultivation land. .
- Animal deworming
Due to its properties as pesticides, it allows to ward off ticks and fleas that can easily adhere to pets. The preparation for this purpose is to be diluted in a liter of water and applied to the skin of the affected animal, then it must be bathed with shampoo to be completely removed. Another of its uses is to eliminate deworm animals such as intestinal worms, mixing the white powder in pet food.
- It prevents illnesses
The pests that adhere to the plants can deteriorate them and cause death, most of them usually lean on the underside of the leaves until they feed on the sap present in it, making them sick until they weaken. Due to their fungicidal properties they can prevent the loss of crops.
- Deodorant
Diatomaceous earth has porous properties, acting as natural filters that are responsible for absorbing possible accumulations of liquids, therefore, they are used in sandboxes to guarantee the good quality of the sand present, allowing it to be kept clean and prevent it from giving off an unpleasant odor and at the same time it allows to eliminate the bacteria that are present.
- Food Supplement
Food grade diatomaceous earth is an element that respects the environment but stands out for being harmless to humans and animal species, being also applied as crop fertilizers and pest control, so they are indirectly consumed by humans. food obtained.
Other considerations
Despite being an innocuous compound and not harmful to the environment, they must be used with adequate safety measures such as keeping the areas where they are present and on the ground ventilated. It must be handled with gloves, although it does not irritate the skin it can dry out, in case of exposure for hours it is advisable to use masks to protect the respiratory tract, since continuous silicon exposure can cause irritation in the respiratory mucous membranes .
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