Vermiculite for Industrial Uses

Vermiculite can be used for a wide range of industrial purposes. It can act as an effective form of insulation and absorption, as well as be an additive component to replace hazardous materials previously used within different industries.

Vermiculite for Insulation

Refractory Products


Vermiculite is used in the refractory insulation industry as loose-fill insulation. It’s also blended with refractory fire bricks and blocks to form a lightweight, highly insulating hybrid commonly used for constructing kilns and ovens.

Exfoliators Premium Vermiculite will enhance the heat retention of a kiln or oven. It acts as loose-fill insulation between the outer steel shell and the lightweight bricks and blocks. For example, a brick baking kiln will commonly use this system. In some kilns or ovens, there is another heavier, tougher, and more wear-resistant internal layer of refractory blocks that will also contain vermiculite.

Silicate and Alumina Bonded Brick Shapes

Vermiculite can be used in conjunction with silicate or alumina to form various basic bricks and more intricate shapes depending on the application. These silicate or alumina bonded brick shapes are used extensively as an insulator for various high-temperature industrial applications, particularly in the refractory industry. Silicate or alumina bonded brick shapes made with Exfoliators Premium Vermiculite are an economical route over alternative insulation methods.

Smelting

Vermiculite in its expanded and unexpanded form is also used in the smelting industry as both a slag coagulant and
insulator. When placed over a pot of molten metal, it will coagulate the slag in a manner that will prevent
impurities from being poured into the moulds. Vermiculite is also used over pots of molten metal alloys to
insulate the pot and keep the contents molten.

Vermiculite for Packing


Vermiculite has been used in multiple packing operations in the airfreight industry, from cartage of hazardous goods to packing delicate items. Due to being very lightweight, vermiculite can reduce the overall weight of the packaging and consequently reduce the overall cost of transport and its environmental impact. Vermiculite also has a low density which allows it to be poured around irregular shapes and objects for loose-fill packing.

Exfoliators Premium Vermiculite possesses good liquid retention characteristics, making it perfect for many hazardous chemical transport applications, including corrosive or flammable chemicals. When transporting plant cuttings and bulbs, it can be soaked with nutrients so the plant can still grow even throughout transportation.

Vermiculite as an Additive Material

Drilling Muds Component

Vermiculite is commonly used as a component in drilling muds when there is a need for excess water absorption and more lubrication of the drill head. Exfoliators Premium Vermiculite is very absorbent and whether the bore is wet or dry, vermiculite will provide additional lubrication for the drill head.

Friction Lining Material

Vermiculite can be used in the manufacturing process of modern friction linings for various automotive and industrial applications. It replaces alternative hazardous materials such as asbestos, which is now outlawed.

Vermiculite as a Spill Absorbent

Vermiculite works as an excellent spill absorbent. Exfoliators’ Premium Spill Absorbent can be applied across a wide range of industries including:

  • As a low cost, lightweight absorbent, and dehydrator for clean-up
  • As a solidification of hazardous and non-hazardous wastes

Spill absorbent is lightweight, so it can reduce environmental impacts and save on significant transport costs in waste removal. Exfoliators Premium Spill Absorbent is chemically neutral and will not shrink, degrade, or over bulk, which are distinct advantages over other spill absorbents.

Spills that have benefited from Exfoliators Premium Spill Absorbent:

  • Hydraulic Oil
  • Alkalis
  • Machine Oil
  • Engine Oil
  • Cutting Oil
  • Emulsified Oils
  • Sludge Mixes
  • Health and Safety
  • Acids – except hydrofluoric
  • Resins
  • Diesel
  • Paints
  • Petrol

Exfoliators Premium Spill Absorbent is a safe product to use as it is pH neutral and completely sterile. However, good health and safety practices should be carried out when mopping up chemical spills. Any waste and clean-up material must be disposed of per local EPA and government regulation. Safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask that all meet Australian standards should be used in conjunction with Exfoliators Premium Spill Absorbent to ensure a safe clean-up of the spill. Users should read the MSDS of this product to ensure safe handling.

Contact Exfoliators

For more information on Exfoliators’ Premium Vermiculite’s industrial uses, contact one of our dedicated sales team at (03) 9706 6049 or via email at [email protected].