What is vermiculite?

  • 13 years ago
What is Vermiculite? Vermiculite is a hydrated basaltic mineral with some unusual properties. It has a unique physical structure, which takes the form of crystalline layers, like mica. Secondly, there is water trapped inside vermiculite. When the vermiculite is heated the water turns to steam, forcing the mineral to expand and the layers fold out like an accordion. Before 1990 much of the world's supply of vermiculite came from a mine near Libby, Montana. This mine had a natural deposit of asbestos which resulted in the vermiculite being contaminated with asbestos. Limiting the number of trips you make to the attic and shortening the length of those trips will help to limit any potential exposure problems. For professional assistance with this and other asbestos-related problems please visit our website at http://www.bustmold.com. Please give us a "like" on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/bustmold as well!