Expanded Perlite Used for Liquefied Natural Gas Carrier (LNGC)
1. Construction applications:
Because ofperlite's outstanding insulating characteristicsand lightweight,perlite is widely used as a loose-fillinsulation in masonry construction. In thisapplication, free-flowing perlite loose-fillmasonry insulation is poured into the cavities ofconcrete block where it completely fills allcores, crevices, mortar areas and ear holes.
Inaddition to providing thermal insulation, perlite enhances fire ratings, reduces noise transmissionand it is rot, vermin and termite resistant.Perlite is also ideal for insulating lowtemperature and cryogenic vessels.
When perlite is used as an aggregate inconcrete; a lightweight, fire resistant,insulating concrete is produced that is ideal forroof decks and other applications. Perlite canalso be used as an aggregate in Portland cementand gypsum plasters for exterior applications andfor the fire protection of beams andcolumns.
Otherconstruction applications include under-floorinsulation, chimney linings, paint texturing,gypsum boards, ceiling tiles and roof insulationboards.
2. Horticulturalapplications:
Inhorticultural applications, perlite is usedthroughout the world as a component of soilessgrowing mixes where it provides aeration andoptimum moisture retention for superior plantgrowth. For rooting cuttings, 100% perlite isused. Studies have shown that outstanding yieldsare achieved with perlite hydroponics' systems.
Other benefits of horticultural perlite areits neutral pH and the fact that it is sterile andweed-free. In addition, its lightweight makes itideal for use in container growing. Otherhorticultural applications for perlite are as acarrier for fertilizer, herbicides and pesticidesand for palletizing seed.
Horticultural perlite is as useful to thehome gardener as it is to the commercial grower.It is used with equal success in greenhousegrowing, landscaping applications and in the homein houseplants.
3. Industrialapplications:
Industrial applications for perlite are themost diverse, ranging from high performancefillers for plastics to cement for petroleum,water and geothermal wells.
Other applications include its use as afilter media for pharmaceuticals, food products,chemicals and water for municipal systems andswimming pools. Additional applications includeits use as an abrasive in soaps, cleaners andpolishes and a variety of foundry applicationsutilizing perlite's insulating properties and highheat resistance.
This same heat resistant property is takenadvantage of when perlite is used in themanufacture of refractory bricks, mortars, andpipe insulation.