What is Peat?

Peat is a popular spill absorbent, but how much do you know about it? Read on to find out what it is, how it’s produced and what it’s used for.

What is Peat?

Peat is naturally occurring plant matter that covers approximately 2% of the earth’s land surface. Peat is basically dead plant material, which is partially decomposed due to a lack of oxygen.

Most of the world’s peat comes from Canada, New Zealand, Russia and Finland. The peat we sell at Stratex comes from Sphagum moss peat deposits from in New Zealand. The unique thing about these peat deposits is that they’ve grown on a clay base, raised above the surrounding landforms. This results in a high-quality peat that’s free of silt contamination.

How is Peat Processed?

Once peat has been collected, it gets harvested and dehydrated. The dehydration process enables the peat to absorb hydrocarbons where water was once stored. Once the  peat is dry, natural waxes in the peat transform it into a hydrophobic state.

What is Peat Used For?

You can use Peat to clean up industrial waste spills such as oil, diesel, alcohol and heavy metals. Here’s a fun fact – Peat can absorb up to five times its weight!

Peat can be used to absorb spills:

On Land: Apply peat around the spill to stop the spread. Finish by covering the rest of the spill. Once fully absorbed, the peat can be swept up and removed. No hosing, detergent or chemicals are required.

On Water: Peat’s hydrophobic qualities enable it to float on water. Apply peat around the perimeter of the spill. It can be applied loose, or within a sock or a boom. Scatter the peat over the contained area and allow to cake. Then use fine nets or a wet suction recovery system to remove.

In Soil: Blend peat into the contaminated area. The pollutant is immediately encapsulated and will no longer spread or leach. Metabolic synthesis occurs as water, sun and nitrogen are introduced, resulting in pollutants being broken down.

Why Use Peat?

Peat is 100% organic and non-toxic. It is also economical, non-abrasive, non-leaching and, in its natural state has already bio-degraded. Peat features naturally occurring bacteria which breaks down hydrocarbons, in turn making them non-harmful. Peat is popular with emergency services, workshops, warehouses and marine.

For more information about Enviropeat and other granular absorbents available from Stratex, contact us on 1300 991 180 or email [email protected].