Crude Vermiculite

UP / MSDS Sheet / Vermiculite Grades / Safety

Crude vermiculite from the Palabora mine consists of golden /brown flakes which are carefully classified into six grades - each with a specified range of particle sizes, as detailed in the accompanying table.

Crude Vermiculite Grades Table

Technical Data

Angle of Repose:

This varies from 38° to 27° according to grade

Chemical Analysis

When analyzed chemically crude and exfoliated vermiculite give the same values. Because vermiculite is a naturally occurring substance, its exact composition may vary from sample to sample.

Melting Point:

Collapse and coalescence of the individual flakes begins at 1330° C.

Aspect Ratio:

As received, this varies from 7:1 to 30:1 depending on grade. Mechanical processing ca produce aspect ratios of 50:1. Chemical and mechanical processing can produce ratios of 200:1.

Cation Exchange:

Palabora America Ltd. ore is produced by the PMC and distributed for use on a world-wide basis. In common with all other raw materials, the health and safety aspects of vermiculite are of significant importance to the users of the mineral. Please click on the link below to see information on our health and safety testing.

Health and Safety Issues

A summary of recent test on South African Vermiculite is available at Vermiculite.net. These tests should allay any concerns about asbestos in South African Vermiculite.

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