China Vermiculite Suppliers - High-Quality A3 Grade Exfoliated Vermiculite from Factory in Shanxi and Hebei for Steel Industry

Crude Vermiculite consists of thin, flat flakes containing microscopic layers of water. Exfoliation on being subjected suddenly to high temperatures (700°C to 1000°C) vermiculite flakes will expand to many times due to the microscopic layers of water turning to steam and forcing the laminar layers apart.

Exfoliated vermiculite, as insulation, sometimes treated with a water repellent, is used to fill pores and cavities in masonry construction and hollow blockwork to enhance acoustic properties, fire rating and insulation performance. Exfoliated vermiculite can also be used to produce refractory and insulation concretes and mortars, and to make high-temperature binders for construction materials, gaskets, specialty papers, textiles and vehicle brake linings. Finer grades of exfoliated vermiculite can be used to produce various shapes of insulation pellets, high-temperature insulation, as a primary component in cementitious coatings, and as a filler in inks, paints, plastics and other materials.

Vermiculite can absorb liquids such as fertilizers, herbicides and insecticides, which can then be transported as free-flowing solids. It is used in the fertilizer and pesticide markets because of its ability to act as a bulking agent, carrier and extender. In horticulture, exfoliated vermiculite improves soil aeration and moisture retention, and when mixed with peat or other composted materials, such as pine bark, vermiculite produces a good growing medium for plants. As a soil conditioner, exfoliated vermiculite improves aeration in clay-rich soils and water retention in sandy soils, while reducing the likelihood of compaction, cracking and crusting of the soil.