Vermiculite

Vermiculite is a mica mineral that exfoliates and expands when heated.

Vermiculite is Mica, baked to the extent of its expansion. Mica is a hydrous silicate, an insulating material having a property of expansion when its rocks or granules are heated at high temperatures, transforming it into a light substance that intrudes air when mixed with soils. Vermiculite comes from the family of phyllosilicate minerals group.

Properties of Vermiculite

• Consists of Water in internal region of the material
• It is chemically inert       
• It is odorless
• It has fire resistant property
• Vermiculite can soak fluids like insecticides , fertilizers and herbicides

Vermiculite based fertilizers are gaining popularity in recent times due to its applications in potting mixes and soil mixes. Utilization of vermiculite in organic fertilizers increases the pace of seed germination in soils.

As per the present day scenario vermiculite is majorly found in Brazil, United States, China, and Zimbabwe mines.