History and uses of peat
| Peat
textiles |
 |
International uses
Apart from the many and varied uses of peat in Ireland,
there are a number of additional uses in other countries
including
Berry harvest
In Northern Europe peatlands are an important source of
wild berries including Cloudberry, Cranberry, Bilberry
and
Crowberry. Over 150 million-kg of berries are harvested
from peatlands in Finland every year. It is estimated
that
edible berries from peatlands are worth £8 million
per annum to the Finnish economy.
Peat Baths
Some health resorts in continental Europe believe that
peat has many therapeutic properties and that a peat bath
can help treat a variety of ailments. Peat baths in Germany
have been in existence since the early 19th century. A mixture
of 2/3 peat with 1/3 water is generally used in the baths.
The peat mixture is heated to 39-42oC and the bather can
only stay in the bath for 20 minutes. Studies are currently
underway to evaluate the benefits of peat baths, which are
believed to be due to high temperatures and biologically
active substances in the peat.
Peat textiles
Textiles made of peat fibre are still something of a novelty
but have been used for over a century in Europe. Peat fibre
is made from the leaves and stems of Cottongrass. The white
seed heads of the Cottongrass plant have been used to stuff
pillows and cushions but it is unsuitable for spinning.
The production of peat fibre is a complex and expensive
process but the shortage of other materials during World
War One resulted in it being used to make uniforms and bandages
in Germany. Alma Torvtextil, a company in Sweden produces
and sells peat fibre products.
Oil Absorption
In Russia and Northern Europe peat is heat treated so that
it will absorb oil but not water. This kind of peat has
been used successfully for over 20 years to mop up small-scale
oil spills. Currently the competition from other oil absorption
products is very strong and no large quantities are sold
for this purpose.
Air Purification
With increasing environmental awareness biological air
purification has become more popular in recent years.
In
Europe approximately 10,000m3 of peat is used to purify
air and remove odours. Bacteria incorporated into the
peat,
breakdown the odours and gases. By using peat it is possible
to adjust the pH and nutrients to a suitable level for
different
bacteria.
