Perlite question

[krisk1227]

What exactly is it made of. I mean could you take a styrofoam block and grate it into small peices and use it . Or is there somthing special about it?

[greensmokers]

Perlite is an amorphous volcanic glass that has a relatively high water content, typically formed by the hydration of obsidian. It occurs naturally and has the unusual property of greatly expanding when heated sufficiently. It is an industrial mineral and a commercial product useful for its light weight after processing.

[ForgetClassC]

I see someone Wikipedia'd.

-C

[BobBong]

Perlite Data Sheet (http://www.schundler.com/msdsperl.htm)

"Perlite is essentially an amorphous, hydrated glassy volcanic rock of rhyolitic composition, consisting primarily of fused sodium potassium aluminum silicate."

----------------------------
V. HEALTH HAZARD INFORMATION
----------------------------
SYMPTOMS OF OVEREXPOSURE for each potential route of exposure
Inhaled:
Coughing
Contact with skin or eyes:
Possible eye irritation from dust particles; wear eye protection
Absorbed through skin:
N/A
Swallowed:
N/A


HEALTH EFFECTS OR RISKS FROM EXPOSURE.
Acute:
None
Chronic:
Excessive inhalation over long period may cause harmful irritation; use mask suitable for nuisance dust.
Target Organ:
None


FIRST AID: EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
Eye Contact:
Attempt to wash out with clear water; if unable have particle removed by doctor
Skin Contact:
None
Inhaled:
Remove affected individual from dusty area to area with clean air
Swallowed:
None


SUSPECTED CANCER AGENT?

NO: This product's ingredients are not found in the lists below.
YES:
______ Federal OSHA
______NTP
______IARC
MEDICAL CONDITIONS AGGRAVATED BY EXPOSURE
Any Respiratory illnesses which a nuisance dust may aggravate




In other words.. DON'T INHALE THAT DUST.

do yourself a favor and wear a mask or damp towel over your face.

Bob. :thumbsup:

[krisk1227]

Thank yall guess i wont be using the styrofoam then must be a reason they use perlite.... hell you pay all tht money for seeds why try to cut corners on somthing that doesnt cost that much..

[Deejay2163]

I grow in a soilless medium and perlite is something I use a lot of.I buy mine off ebay and it's way cheaper and it's delivered to you.As of this year ,I'm a firm believer in perlite.It hold water as well as keeps the soil light and aerated. When it comes to cultivation ,I try to stay all organic when possible and so far ,it has paid off in spades.

[jtsik330]

Im also a strong believer in perlite. I use a soiless mix aswell with 50/50 perlite and its amazing. Flushings are a breeze when needed and I think the roots love the air that can flow. If you breath hard next to my pot perlite will go everywhere.:thumbsup: