World: Brewers’ consumption of diatomite in filtration is forecast to grow at 1-2% per year

At a time when 95% of the world's commercial beer breweries continue to use diatomite filtration, and consumption of diatomite in filtration is forecast to grow at 1-2%py through to 2010, it is more important than ever to have the information you can rely on, Research and Markets announced on October 4.

The diatomite industry is undergoing restructuring in 2005. Imerys of France has acquired World Minerals, by far the largest diatomite producer worldwide, with operations in USA, Chile, China, France, Mexico, Peru and Spain. EaglePicher Industries, the parent company of the second largest producer, EPFM, filed to reorganise under Chapter 11 of the US Bankruptcy Code in April 2005. EPFM could be divested.

Although the market for diatomite is estimated to remain stable in the short-term, the longer-term outlook may be less optimistic. Potential EU-wide classification of spent diatomite as hazardous waste would necessitate disposal in registered sites and increase utilization costs.

Offsetting the current growth in filtration markets is the continued fall in demand for specialty diatomite fillers. Fillers currently account for 15-20% of world diatomite consumption. In paint, diatomite is the most cost-effective flatting agent, while in polyethylene, diatomite acts as an anti-blocking agent. Concerns over health and safety issues associated with the free crystalline silica content of calcined diatomite, and the costs of installing necessary handling and worker protection systems, have resulted in substitution of diatomite fillers by talc or ground calcium carbonate. Some paint manufacturers have switched to natural diatomite grades, but others have reduced consumption or plan to eliminate diatomite from new paint formulations.

Reflecting the market pressures, diatomite pricing is very competitive and leading producers have traditionally discounted list prices to retain market share. US list prices range from below US$200/t for concrete grades to over US$450/t for some filter aid material. Over the past two years, leading producers have raised diatomite list prices three times, primarily reflecting higher energy costs, but also to offset rising freight, raw material and environmental compliance costs. It seems likely that diatomite prices will continue to rise in line with energy costs in the near future.

E-malt.com, the global information source for the brewing and malting industry professionals. The bi-weekly E-malt.com Newsletters feature latest industry news, statistics in graphs and tables, world barley and malt prices, and other relevant information. Click here to get full access to E-malt.com. If you are a Castle Malting client, you can get free access to E-malt.com website and publications. Contact us for more information at marketing@castlemalting.com .