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What is vermiculite?

What is vermiculite? Vermiculite is a hydrated magnesium aluminum silicate mineral which resembles mica in appearance. The mineral is formed by weathering or hydrothermal alteration of biotite or phlogopite. Consequently, it is mined using open cast mining techniques where the ore is screened and classified into five different particle sizes namely: Large, Medium, Fine, Superfine and Micron.

Of importance to note is that vermiculite undergoes significant expansion when heated resulting into worm-like strands due to expansion. Furthermore, it drastically increases its volume and absorption ability when expanded. It is a silica mineral which you can use in agriculture, horticulture, construction and industrial sectors. Vermiculite is also an excellent material for fire-proofing and insulation. Additionally, apply it for insulation or as a moisture-retention medium for growing plants

Vermiculite grades in Nairobi Kenya
Vermiculite in Nairobi Kenya

Properties of Exfoliated Vermiculite 

  • Firstly, it is lightweight
  • Secondly it is chemically and biologically inert
  • Thirdly ,it has low thermal and electrical conductivity, good thermal insulation
  • Odourless and high liquid absorption capacity
  • Non-combustible, low density
  • Fusion temperature of  1260°C
  • Lastly, it has Good Aeration

Applications of Vermiculite

  • Horticultural – Potting Mixes, Seed Germination, Blocking Mixes, Sowing Composts, Hydroponics, Micro-Propagation
  • Industrial -Castables, Fireproof Safes, Absorbent Packing for Hazardous Goods, Brake Pads & Brake Shoes, Insulation – High & Low Temperature, Molten Metal Insulation, Fixation of Hazardous Material, Furnaces –e.g for Industry and Tobacco Barns, Insulation Blocks & Shapes, Nuclear Waste Disposal
  • Agricultural– Bulking Agent, Fertilizer Carrier, Pesticide Carrier, Seed Encapsulation, Soil Conditioner, Animal Feed, Anti-Caking Material
  • Construction– Insulating and Light-Weight Concrete, Gypsum Plasterboard, Loose fill Loft Insulation, Acoustic Finishes, Passive Fire Protection, Floor & Roof Screeds, Sound Deadening Compounds

Dandy Solutions LTD is the leading wholesale supplier of vermiculite in Nairobi Kenya.

Call +254748246998 to place your order

Swift delivery within Kenya. Huge price (KES) discounts on large orders