Vermiculite in Nairobi, Kenya

What is Vermiculite?

Vermiculite is a hydrated magnesium aluminum silicate mineral which resembles mica in appearance, which is formed by weathering or hydrothermal alteration of biotite or phlogopite. 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. Vermiculite undergoes significant expansion when heated. The mineral is expanding into worm-like strands. When expanded it drastically increases its volume and absorption ability. It is a silica mineral and are used in agriculture, horticulture, construction and industrial sectors. Vermiculite is also an excellent material for fire-proofing and insulation. It is also used for insulation or as a moisture-retentive medium for growing plants