Imerys Filtration Minerals Inc. is a world leading supplier of engineered mineral products derived from diatomaceous earth and expanded perlite, natural raw materials possessing unusually light density, chemical inertness, high surface area and intricate structure. As a result of these unusual properties, the company's products are used in a host of applications, including filtration for liquid/solid separation, functional fillers for paints, coatings, polymers and elastomers, bioreactor support, and in the promotion of plant growth. In addition, Imerys Filtration Minerals is a leading supplier of semi-finished products, such as crushed and screened perlite ore.  Imerys Filtration operates a global network of 26 production facilities. The Company's products are used in virtually every nation, and are available either from the Company's 17 direct sales offices or through its highly capable distributors and agents.