Fogbow

NATIONAL DIATOMACEOUS EARTH DAY | AUGUST 31

On August 31st, National Diatomaceous Earth Day recognizes the diatom and the remarkable mineral it creates.

#DiatomaceousEarthDay
Most people know of diatomaceous earth because they use it around their homes. Sometimes they use it as a filter for swimming pools or as a natural insecticide. Biologists understand diatoms, single-celled plants. They form diatomaceous earth and are indeed the lungs of the earth. Amazingly, diatoms produce about ¾ of the world’s new oxygen supply. Another scientist known as materials scientists recognizes diatom skeletons (called frustules). Imagine tiny, intricate porous opal structures. They are known to be the most durable naturally occurring substances in the world.

About Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth, also known as DE, is a sedimentary rock. DE mines unearth large deposits worldwide. From the United States, Mexico, Chile, and Peru to France, Spain, Denmark, and China substantial deposits exist. While dying diatoms continue to form diatomaceous earth today, some of the deposits developed millions of years ago.

When diatoms die and fall to the bottom of bodies of water, DE deposits form. Over time, the organic portions of the diatoms weather away. The remaining opal frustules form diatomaceous earth. Some of the largest deposits in the U.S. formed in ancient lakes in California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington. They also formed in oceans and occur along the coasts of North and South America.

Modern Applications
Today, DE is one of the most useful and durable substances known. DE sees nearly universal use in the filtration of liquids. For example, DE filters the beer and wine we drink. It also filters the water in swimming pools. DE refines chemicals for food and medications. Another DE use is in paint; it removes the sheen making flat paint flat. In plastics, DE prevents blocking in plastic film. Additionally, when oil spills, recovery specialists often turn to DE to absorb the oil.