Clinoptilolite zeolite or diatomaceous earth: differences and technical uses
Clinoptilolite zeolite and diatomaceous earth are two natural powdered minerals that are often confused. Both are porous and used in filtration, but their origin, structure and mode of action are different.
Clinoptilolite zeolite
- Origin: a mineral of volcanic origin, a crystalline aluminosilicate.
- Structure: a crystal lattice with molecular-sized channels and cavities and a negative charge.
- How it works: through ion exchange (it captures cations such as ammonium and replaces them with calcium, sodium, potassium or magnesium) and through adsorption.
- Technical uses: water filtration and treatment, odour and moisture control, soil and substrate conditioning.
- At Aquapurelife: micronised zeolite (< 2 µm) in 200 g and 400 g jars (see zeolite powder), lots (see lots) and a 20 kg sack.
Diatomaceous earth
- Origin: a sedimentary rock formed from the fossilised skeletons of microalgae (diatoms).
- Structure: amorphous silica (non-crystalline) with enormous porosity.
- How it works: physically: it retains particles in its pores (mechanical filtration) and absorbs liquids and oils.
- Technical uses: filter medium, absorbent, mineral filler and mild abrasive.
- At Aquapurelife: amorphous diatomaceous earth in 200 g and 400 g jars (see diatomaceous earth), lots and a 25 kg sack.
Comparison table
| Feature | Clinoptilolite zeolite | Diatomaceous earth |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Volcanic | Sedimentary (fossil microalgae) |
| Composition | Crystalline aluminosilicate | Amorphous silica |
| Mechanism | Ion exchange and adsorption | Physical filtration and absorption |
| Typical use | Water treatment, odours, soils | Filtration, absorbent, mineral filler |
| Formats | 200 g, 400 g, lots and 20 kg | 200 g, 400 g, lots and 25 kg |
Which one to choose?
If you want to capture ions or control odours and ammonium, zeolite is the right option. If you need to retain particles or absorb liquids, diatomaceous earth works better. In many filtration processes they are used together, each in its own role.
Handling and storage
- They are very fine powders: avoid raising dust and wear a mask when handling large quantities.
- Keep the jar tightly closed and in a dry place: both minerals pick up moisture from the environment.
- Keep out of the reach of children.
Frequently asked questions
Where to buy clinoptilolite zeolite in Spain?
In Aquapurelife’s zeolite collection, with shipping within 24-72 h and free shipping from €40. For large quantities, see B2B and bulk.
What does “micronised” mean?
It means the mineral is ground to a very small particle size (in our case, below 2 µm), which increases its contact surface.
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