VERMICULITE
THE NAME
Vermiculite stems from the Latin word vermiculusâ “ little worm“ which reflects its characteristic to expand form an ultra-lightweight aggregate to a worm-like shape when heated.
COMPOSITION
Chemically, vermiculite is a hydrated magnesium aluminum silicate and exfoliates (expands) up to 20 times its original size when heated with over 1000 degrees Celsius. Exfoliated vermiculite is non-combustible, compressible, highly absorbent, and nonreactive and it also possesses high cation exchange capacity.
Vermiculite is one of the safest and most unique minerals in the world!
MELTING POINT
Vermiculite has a high melting point of 1330 degrees Celsius, is non-conductive, reflects light and stores moisture, and does not stratify when being frozen.
APPLICATIONS
Vermiculites crystal structure and chemical characteristics make it ideal for fire protection, insulation, and many more applications, e.g. as a growing medium in horticulture/agriculture. Contrary to asbestos it is non-carcinogenic, absolutely safe, and 100% recyclable!
| Typical Chemical Analysis | Physical Properties | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Silicon (SiO2) | 39.4% | Melting Point (°C) | 1330 |
| Magnesium (MgO) | 25.2% | Specific Heat (1kJ/kg.K) | 1.08 |
| Aluminium (Al2O3) | 8.8% | Specific Gravity (Crude) | 2.5 |
| Potassium (K2O) | 4.5% | Mohs Hardness (Crude) | 1 – 2 |
| Iron (Fe2O3) | 4.0% | pH (ISO 787-9) | 7 – 8 |
| Calcium (CaO) | 1.8% | % Loss at 105°C (Expanded Product) | < 0.5 |
| Carbonate (CO2) | 1.4% | % Loss at 1000°C (Expanded Product) | < 6 |
| Titanium (TiO2) | 0.8% | ||
| Fluorine (F) | 0.5% |
The color of raw vermiculite is light to dark and brownish to green. When exfoliated under heat, the color changes to an appealing lustrous gold/golden brown with a silver (or) bronze tint.