Granulated Cork and Cork Chips
Cork grains are used for a variety of industrial components such as batteries, various fillers, insulators, or as compounds to be mixed with other materials. Granulated cork is natural and light in weight. Exact mesh sizes and densities are produced to meet customer’s specifications and requirements. Jelinek works with customers to ensure correct mesh size and densities to meet specific needs. Jelinek Cork supplies cork grain in many different sizes ranging from the finest “powder” to large cork chips. Cork grain is also available in either a light natural color or a dark brown color. It is normally packed loose in bags or compressed in bales.
Besides the use of cork grain for larger industrial purposes (such as a component of rubber cork gasket materials, orthopedic shoes, agglomerate wine corks, insoles, cork sheets and rolls, insulating and flooring materials), cork grains also have many common day to day uses. In keeping with Jelinek’s commitment to the environment, much of these grains are produced from recycled wine corks.
Turf and Field Infill
Granulated cork is increasingly used as a natural infill material for synthetic turf and athletic fields. Cork infill helps improve surface cushioning and shock absorption, creating a more comfortable and safer playing experience. It is naturally resistant to moisture, does not compact easily, and offers excellent durability in a wide range of outdoor conditions. In addition, cork's low thermal conductivity can help reduce heat buildup, helping to keep field surfaces cooler than many traditional infill materials.
Small Oil Spills
It has been found that medium size cork grain is an ideal material to help clean small domestic and industrial spills (oil) since it confines and absorbs spills quickly. The natural cellular structure of cork enables it to quickly absorb and contain oils, helping to prevent spills from spreading. Lightweight and easy to apply, granulated cork can be spread over affected areas to aid in cleanup and disposal. As a natural and renewable material, cork offers an environmentally responsible alternative to many synthetic absorbents used for spill control.
Lightweight Filler and Natural Insulator
The low density and resilience of cork make it ideal for filling kayak, canoe, and boat cushions, where buoyancy and moisture resistance are important. Granulated cork is also commonly used as a stuffing material for dolls, mannequins, props, and display items. In addition to providing volume without adding significant weight, cork offers thermal and acoustic insulation properties
Gardening
When mixed into garden soil, cork helps maintain a loose, aerated structure that improves drainage and root development while still retaining moisture. This balanced environment supports healthier plant growth by enhancing soil structure and reducing compaction over time.
Hobbies
Cork grain is ideal for hobby applications such as model railways, where it is commonly used as bedding and for creating realistic terrain. Its lightweight, natural appearance makes it easy to shape and layer, helping hobbyists achieve detailed and authentic-looking miniature landscapes.
Theater/Movie/TV Props & Sets
Cork grain is widely used in film, television, and theater production to simulate realistic terrain such as sand or dirt or debris. Its lightweight nature makes it an ideal alternative to using actual sand or soil, which can be heavy and difficult to manage on set. It is also used to add texture to paint and to create realistic surface effects such as stucco.
Window and Store Displays
Whether creating a “make-believe” beach or desert scene, or designing unique flooring effects, cork grain offers display designers endless creative possibilities. Its lightweight, natural appearance makes it an ideal material for building realistic and visually engaging retail and exhibition displays.
