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Is Vermiculite Safe to Use?

For decades, a mine near Libby, Montana supplied 70 percent of vermiculite sold in the U.S. Later, that vermiculite was found to be contaminated with asbestos.
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  1. Properties

    • Vermiculite is a naturally occurring, shiny mineral that flakes off in thin sheets. When heated, vermiculite expands many times its original size. Vermiculite is odor-free, fire- and mold-resistant, sterile and lightweight.

    Uses

    • Vermiculite is used for insulation and lightweight concrete and serves as a medium for animal feedstuffs. Vermiculite can be made into plasters to line pools or automotive parts and is also used for horticultural purposes.

    Potential Contamination

    • The mine near Libby, Montana, which supplied 70 percent of U.S. vermiculite and closed in 1990, is contaminated because natural asbestos is near the mining site. The asbestos contamination in this mine is unique to that geographical and geological area.

    Safety and Regulation

    • Natural deposits of vermiculite will contain traces of other minerals found nearby. Vermiculite manufacturers are required to supply Material Safety Data Sheets to the public. Also, the Mining Safety Health Administration (MSHA) regularly tests samples of vermiculite for contaminants.

    Caution

    • Though vermiculite is not considered harmful, asbestos is a health risk. The Environmental Protection Agency cautions that if you have vermiculite insulation in your home you should take steps to protect yourself from possible exposure to asbestos.

    Conclusion

    • Vermiculite is considered to be a safe material to use and handle following recommended guidelines, and there is no evidence to suggest homes containing vermiculite from the Libby mine have ever caused health problems.

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