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Natural Diatomaceous Earth

  • Abrasives
  • CAS 61790-53-2
  • IUPAC: Diatomaceous earth, natural

Natural Diatomaceous Earth (CAS 61790-53-2) appears in 4 of the 2,122 car-care products CarCareTruth tracks (as of August 2026).

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
Purpose: Silica-based secondary abrasive and polishing aid in polish formulations

Common questions about Natural Diatomaceous Earth

What is Natural Diatomaceous Earth used for in car care?
Silica-based secondary abrasive and polishing aid in polish formulations
Is Natural Diatomaceous Earth a VOC?
No. Natural Diatomaceous Earth is not classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC).
Is Natural Diatomaceous Earth on California's Proposition 65 list?
No. Natural Diatomaceous Earth is not on California's Proposition 65 list.

4 products contain this

Related

Health and environment notes translate the manufacturer Safety Data Sheet, the GHS classification, and authoritative regulatory listings (California Prop 65, EPA). Not medical advice. They describe the ingredient itself; whether a hazard applies to a finished product depends on its concentration and how it's used.