Natural Diatomaceous Earth
- Abrasives
- CAS 61790-53-2
- IUPAC: Diatomaceous earth, natural
Naturally occurring silica mineral (amorphous, not crystalline quartz). Inert at polish-use concentrations in aqueous suspension. No systemic health hazard in liquid suspension. Respirable dust is an irritant, but not a realistic exposure scenario in wet-polish use.
Natural diatomaceous earth is the fossilized remains of diatoms — microscopic algae with silica-based cell walls. In polish formulas it functions as a fine secondary abrasive and polishing aid, contributing to gloss development after the primary cutting abrasive has done its work.
This is the naturally occurring amorphous form (CAS 61790-53-2), not the crystalline silica associated with silicosis risk (which is a different material, CAS 14808-60-7). In aqueous polish suspension the inhalation risk is negligible. Environmentally persistent (mineral) but non-toxic and non-bioaccumulative.
Health & environment profile
- VOC
- no
- Prop 65 listed
- no
- Asthmagen
- no
- EPA Safer Choice
- no
- Aquatic toxicity
- no
- Biodegradable
- no
- Bioaccumulative
- no
- Persistent
- yes
- Ozone depleting
- no
- Microplastic
- no
- PFAS
- no
- Env. score
- 5/5
1 product contain this
Chemical Guys V4 All-in-One Polish + Sealantone-step-polish
Health summaries are editorial — we synthesize from SDSs, peer-reviewed sources, and regulatory listings. Not medical advice.