Vermiculite is a member of the phyllosilicate group of minerals, resembling mica in appearance. It is found in various parts of the world, but currently the major mines are located in South Africa, China, Brazil, Zimbabwe, and the United States.
Vermiculite has a wide range of uses that take advantage of its excellent fire resistance, good thermal and acoustic insulating properties, high liquid absorption capacity, inertness and low density.
Most applications for vermiculite use an exfoliated (heat expanded) form of the mineral. In general, coarser grades of vermiculite are used as loose fill insulation and in horticulture. Finer grades are used in wallboard and plasters and for animal feeds and fertilizers.
Vermiculite is also mixed with concrete and applied as a screed.
Vermiculite is non-toxic, natural and environmentally safe.
