Global Diatomite Market - Forecasts from 2023 to 2028

The global diatomite market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 1.55% to reach US$1,050.745 million by 2028, from US$943.491 million in 2021.

Diatomite, also known as diatomaceous earth, is a naturally occurring sedimentary rock composed of fossilized remains of diatoms, which are microscopic single-celled algae with silica cell walls. Diatomite is widely used in various industries due to its unique properties, such as high porosity, high surface area, low density, and abrasive nature. The global diatomite market is driven by the increasing demand for diatomite in various end-use industries such as agriculture, filtration, construction, and food and beverage. Diatomite is used as a soil amendment and pest control agent in agriculture. In filtration, it is used as a filter media for water, beer, wine, and other beverages. Diatomite is used as an insulating material, lightweight aggregate, and filler in construction. In the food and beverage industry, diatomite is used as a filtration aid and a functional ingredient in various food products. The global diatomite market is highly fragmented, with several small and large players. These companies are focusing on product innovation, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic partnerships to expand their market share and strengthen their position.

The global diatomite market is driven by rising demand in several industries, including water filtration, food and beverages, and due to demand for lightweight materials.

• The increasing demand for safe and clean drinking water is one of the key drivers of the diatomite market, as diatomite is an effective filtration medium due to its high porosity and surface area. The water filtration demand is expected to continue to grow in the coming years, driven by the increasing population, urbanization, and industrialization, leading to a rise in water pollution levels. In addition, the growing awareness about the health benefits of drinking clean water is also driving the demand for water filtration systems, which, in turn, is fueling the demand for diatomite.
• The growing demand for processed and packaged food and beverages drives the demand for diatomite as a filtration aid and functional ingredient. Diatomite is commonly used as a filtration aid in the food and beverage industry due to its ability to remove impurities and improve the clarity and quality of the final product. In addition, diatomite is also used as a functional ingredient in various food products, such as baked goods, condiments, and seasonings, as it is a natural source of silica and has a high absorption capacity.
• The growing demand for diatomite in various end-use industries such as agriculture, filtration, construction, and food and beverage is a major driver of the market. For example, the use of diatomite as a soil amendment and pest control agent in agriculture and as a filter media for water, beer, and wine in filtration has increased significantly in recent years. As such, the consumption of diatomite has increased in several countries. According to a report by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the consumption of diatomite in the United States increased by 3% in 2020 compared to the previous year, driven by the growing demand from end-use industries such as agriculture, filtration, and construction.

Market Developments:

In December 2021, a team of researchers, majorly from Kenyatta University in Kenya, published a research paper highlighting the sustainability and environmental impact of the mining and processing of diatomite. The authors conducted a case study in the diatomite mining industry in Kenya and used a sustainability assessment framework to evaluate the industry's economic, social, and environmental impacts. The study found that the diatomite mining industry in Kenya has positive economic impacts, such as job creation and export earnings. However, the industry also has negative environmental impacts such as land degradation, water pollution, and carbon emissions. They suggested that the industry adopt sustainable practices such as land reclamation and water management to mitigate these impacts.

In May 2021, a leading company specializing in the production and application of diatomite in producing a wide variety of products, Imerys, announced its collaboration with ATPGroup to develop diatomite filtration products for beverage producers such as brewers.

In February 2021, Dicalite Management Group, LLC, a company involved in diatomite production, introduced a new brand, Harvest Hero, which produces products to be used in the horticultural market. The brand introduced its first product, Enhanced Perlite Mix, which comprises diatomite as one of its core ingredients to provide soluble silica to the crops.

Environmental concerns and limited awareness regarding benefits are key challenges to growth.

The mining and processing of diatomite can negatively impact the environment, including soil erosion, water pollution, and habitat destruction. This has led to increasing regulatory scrutiny and environmental concerns, which could lead to stricter regulations and higher operating costs for diatomite mining companies. In addition, despite its many advantages, diatomite is still not widely known in some industries and regions. This limits its potential in specific segments.

Asia Pacific accounted for a significant share of the global diatomite market in 2021.

Based on geography, the global diatomite market is segmented into North America, South America, Europe, Middle East and Africa, and Asia Pacific. The Asia Pacific region has some of the fastest-growing economies in the world, such as China and India. These countries have witnessed significant industrial growth and infrastructure development in recent years, leading to a rise in demand for diatomite-based products in various industries. As a result, this region's diatomite market is expected to witness significant growth in the coming years, driven by the increasing demand from these emerging economies. Furthermore, the significant production strength of this region also favors the Asia Pacific diatomite market. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), China produced 1.12 million metric tons of diatomite in 2020, which accounted for approximately 66% of the world's total production.

Market Segmentation:

By Type

• Natural Grade
• Calcined Grade
• Flux-Calcined Grade

By Application

• Filter Media
• Cement Additive
• Filler
• Absorbent
• Others

By Geography

• North America
• USA
• Canada
• Mexico
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Others
• Europe
• United Kingdom
• Germany
• France
• Spain
• Others
• Middle East and Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• Israel
• UAE
• Others
• Asia Pacific
• China
• Japan
• India
• South Korea
• Australia
• Vietnam
• Indonesia
• Others