Pest control
Diatomite is also used as an
insecticide, due to its physico-
sorptive properties. The fine powder absorbs lipids from the
cuticle, the waxy outer layer of insects'
exoskeletons, causing them to dehydrate.
Arthropods die as a result of the water pressure deficiency, based on
Fick's law of diffusion. This also works against
gastropods and is commonly employed in gardening to defeat
slugs. However, since slugs inhabit humid environments, efficacy is very low.
Beekeepers are apparently experimenting with it, to keep
small hive beetles from breeding. It is sometimes mixed with an attractant or other additives to increase its effectiveness. Medical-grade diatomite is sometimes used to de-worm both animals and humans. It is most commonly used in lieu of
boric acid, and can be used to help control and eventually eliminate a
cockroach infestation. This material has wide application in control of insects of grain storage.
Among the disadvantages of using diatomaceous earth for pest control include the health risk to humans (see below), and that it is harmful to the many insects that are beneficial to gardens, including predatory
beetles and
bugs and many
detritivores.