PHYSICAL APPEARANCE

Vermiculite refers to a small group of minerals resembling the lamella structure of the micas. It is dark gray brown to golden brown in color and flake-shaped when dry.


Vermiculite characteristics






PROPERTIES


Exfoliation :

When heated to intense temperatures vermiculite expands in volume and its lamellae separate, and thus exfoliate.


Moisture retention:

The spaces created by exfoliation trap moisture. Ideal for horticultural applications, vermiculate has the capacity to retain several times its weight in water.


Air circulation:

Once exfoliated, vermiculite flakes are irregular in shape allowing better air circulation. Widely used in horticulture to aerate soil mixes or for hydroponic cultures.


Low density:

Exfoliation causes a great increase in volume without an increase in mass. Being extremely lightweight, vermiculite is an ideal material to lighten aggregates such as concrete, plaster, and asphalt, and to fill walls and partitions.


Inert and neutral pH:

Vermiculite is inert and has a neutral pH. It is non-toxic and processing produces no residues.


Insulating and fire resistant:

Vermiculite is widely used as insulation material in walls and partitions for its air retention capacity and lightweight. It also has fire and heat retardant properties.



• For more information on vermiculite •




Copyright © Perlite Canada inc. All rights reserved.