Vermiculite is a member of the phyllosilicate group of minerals, resembling mica in appearance. It is found in various parts of the world, vermiculite is basically a hydrated phlogopite mica which has the remarkable ability to expand to many times its original volume when heated at 850 -1100°C.
Crude vermiculite consists of golden and silver vermiculite which are carefully classified into many sizes ,includes0.3-1mm1.5-2.5mm0.5-1.41mm1-2mm2-4mm3-6mm4-8mm.
Exfoliated Vermiculite
The exfoliation process is carried out commercially by passing crude vermiculite through a furnace chamber in a controlled manner. The crude vermiculite then expands at right angles to the cleavage planes, producing concertina-shaped particles many times their original volume.Exfoliated vermiculite size ,includes 0.3-1mm1-3mm1-2mm2-4mm2-3mm
3-5mm3-6mm4-8mm6-8mm,special size can be done as per customer’s demands .
1.Main advantages and features of expanded vermiculite:
· Inorganic, inert and sterile.
· Non abrasive.
· Ultra light weight.
· Free from disease, weeds and insects.
· Slightly alkaline.
· High cation-exchange.
· Excellent aeration characteristics.
· High water holding capacity
· Insulating.
2.Chemical Properties
Composition |
SiO2 |
MgO |
Al2O3 |
Fe2O3 |
CaO |
K2O |
ph |
Percentage |
37-42% |
11-23% |
9-17% |
3.5-18% |
1-2% |
5-8% |
7-11 |