Pumice
Other names: Pumice
Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)
Pumice, also known as pumice in some countries, is a specific type of rock of volcanic origin. A characteristic feature of pumice is its porosity and low density, which make it able to float on water. This type of rock is composed mainly of siliceous compounds and is formed during explosive volcanic eruptions when the ejected lava cools rapidly and foams. This process preserves the gas bubbles in the solid, giving the pumice its typical texture and lightness.
Pumice is used in many products and industries. As it has abrasive properties, it is often used in cosmetics to make foot files or for body scrubs. Due to its exceptional composition and properties, it is also part of some cleansing products that are used to remove dirt and dead cells from the skin. In the ceramic and construction industries, pumice is used as a lightweight and insulating component in concrete and insulation materials. In addition, pumice is also used in the textile industry to achieve a certain 'rolled' or 'crumpled' effect on jeans. It also finds invaluable use in horticulture, where it is added to the soil to increase its permeability.