A versatile and lightweight raw material for construction chemicals, paints, and cosmetics
Chemical properties
Perlites are natural materials derived from volcanic glass, which, due to their high content of silicon dioxide (70-75%) and other oxides such as aluminum and iron oxide, are chemically stable.
Inert: Various types of perlites do not react with other materials, making them suitable for mixtures in construction, industry, and cosmetics.
Heat-resistant: Due to their high melting point of 1,260-1,340 °C, various types of perlites improve fire protection and the fire resistance of construction elements.
Durable: They are extremely durable and resistant to moisture, UV rays, and chemicals.
Mineral origin: Its natural origin ensures gentle processing without harmful emissions.
Detergents: The perlite-based product SIPOR® SP from HPF is a high-quality natural alternative to microplastics for cosmetic applications. The small perlite spheres in SIPOR® help, for example, to gently remove skin impurities.
SIPOR® - High-quality HPF perlite products
HPF products are known under the following brands:
Important properties for the use of SIPOR® SP in cosmetics
SIPOR® SP serves as a mineral-based alternative to microplastic particles in cosmetic applications. It stands out for the following properties:
- dermatologically tested
- 100% natural, pure, and odorless
- closed-pore spherical surface
- high degree of whiteness
- pH-neutral
- soft touch
- long-lasting
- extremely lightweight
- free of metals
Recently, SIPOR® SP received the "dermatologically tested" seal, making it suitable for cosmetic products such as scrubs and shower gels. It offers gentle exfoliation and leaves the skin feeling velvety. Thanks to the closed-pore structure of the perlite spheres, dead skin cells are gently removed, helping to remove dead skin cells while leaving the skin feeling smooth and refreshed.
The use of SIPOR® SP makes it possible to eliminate microplastic particles from select exfoliating and cleansing formulations. Microplastic particles are widespread in water, soil, air, and even in food, and can contain high concentrations of pollutants. Aquatic organisms ingest these particles, with potentially negative effects on the food chain. Using SIPOR® SP as a natural alternative reduces the impact of microplastics without compromising product performance.
HPF Minerals places great emphasis on high-quality standards and the careful production of SIPOR® SP to meet the cosmetics industry’s requirements for purity, functionality, and consistent product quality.
The main features of various types of perlites
Various types of perlites are distinguished by their unique physical and chemical properties, making them valuable for many applications:
Closed-pore spherical surface: The smooth and spherical structure ensures a gentle tactile sensation and allows for even distribution, ideal for applications in cosmetics, construction, and the paint industry.
High degree of whiteness: Various types of perlites are characterized by a high degree of whiteness, making them a preferred choice for aesthetically demanding applications such as paints and coatings.
pH neutral: Various types of perlites are pH neutral and do not react with other materials, making them perfect for sensitive mixtures, for example in cosmetics or construction materials. Extremely lightweight: The lightness of various types of perlites makes them an ideal filler in applications where weight reduction is crucial, such as in thermal insulating materials or lightweight construction elements.
Mineral Raw Material: Perlites are naturally occurring volcanic minerals. Due to their low density, chemical stability, and functional particle structure, they are suitable for numerous applications, including as a mineral-based alternative to microplastic particles in select cosmetic formulations.
Perlite production: from raw material to versatile material
Perlites are obtained from natural volcanic rocks. In an industrial production process, various types of perlites are rapidly heated to temperatures between 850 and 1,200 °C. The water bound in the rock evaporates explosively, expanding the particles by 10 to 20 times their original volume and giving them their characteristic lightness.
Quality control ensures the monitoring of physical properties such as density, porosity, and particle size, to tailor perlite protucts to the requirements of construction chemicals, paints, and cosmetics.
Manufacturing takes place in controlled industrial processes. Modern, high-capacity production facilities also ensure consistent availability.
The success story of perlite
Perlite is a natural raw material derived from volcanic rocks. Perlite was first used industrially at the beginning of the 20th century. Its low density and exceptional thermal insulation properties made perlite a valued material for construction and insulation projects.
Over time, applications have significantly expanded: in addition to construction chemicals, perlite is used in paints, coatings, cosmetics, and environmental technologies. Modern research has discovered further possibilities for use, such as an alternative to microplastics or as a filtration material in the food industry. FAQ
What properties do various types of perlites have?
Various types of perlites are extremely lightweight, heat-resistant, thermally and acoustically insulating, and pH neutral. They are characterized by a high degree of whiteness and a closed-pore spherical surface.
How are various types of perlites produced?
Various types of perlites are obtained from volcanic rocks and expanded through rapid heating. During this process, the bound water evaporates, expanding the particles by 10 to 20 times their original volume.
Where are various types of perlites used?
They are used in construction (e.g., in plasters, mortars, and insulating materials), in paints and coatings, as well as in cosmetic products as a mineral-based alternative to microplastic particles.
More Information?
For all questions regarding various types of perlites, we are happy to assist you. Please do not hesitate to contact us – we will be happy to respond.
