What exactly does a filter aid do?

Depth filters often use filter aids to enhance filtration performance. Common filter aids include perlite, activated carbon, diatomaceous earth (DE), or other silica-based materials.

Diatomaceous earth is composed of fossilized phytoplankton, also known as diatoms, including a large variety of diatom species. A wide range of diatom shapes are present and distributed randomly, which enhance the retention capabilities of the filtration media. Diatomaceous earth can also be further processed by calcination, chemical treatment or acid washing to remove various extractable minerals.

Perlite is composed of mined and processed volcanic ash. Although perlite gives the filter a more uniform appearance and higher mechanical strength, its retention capacity is inferior to diatomaceous earth.

Carbon is used as an adsorbent to remove color, odor, and chlorides. It can be derived from sources such as wood, lignite, coconuts, or bones, and can be activated by steam, chemicals, or acids.

Although the addition of filter aids can significantly enhance filtration performance, it may also introduce certain risks that require particular attention, including:

• Material consistency
• Operation and handling
• Storage conditions
• Post-Use Disposal
• Packaging
• Levels of Various Extractable Species

Filter aids work fine, but control the quality line.