Advanced Expanded Vermiculite Insulation Solutions for Modern Applications
Industry Evolution of Vermiculite Insulation
The global market for expanded vermiculite insulation is projected to grow at 5.8% CAGR through 2030 (Grand View Research). This sustainable insulation material has transitioned from niche horticultural use to mainstream industrial applications due to its exceptional thermal properties and environmental advantages. As building codes worldwide mandate higher energy efficiency standards, architects increasingly specify expanded vermiculite insulation for passive fire protection systems.
Leading institutions including the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) have validated vermiculite's thermal stability in extreme conditions. Their research shows vermiculite maintains insulation integrity at continuous 1000°C exposure, outperforming synthetic alternatives. According to International Building Code specifications, 50mm expanded vermiculite insulation provides 90-minute fire resistance for structural steel.
Premium Horticultural Grade Expanded Vermiculite
Product: Horticultural Grade Exfoliated Expanded Vermiculite
Key Properties: Density 100-300kg/m³ | Expansion ratio 15-30x | pH 7.0-7.5
Applications: Hydroponics | Seed starting | Soil amendment
Discover our full product specifications at: Vermiculite Product Details
Our exfoliation process expands raw vermiculite ore at precisely controlled 850°C temperatures, creating the ideal microstructure for moisture retention and root aeration. Independent lab tests confirm our product holds 200-300% its weight in water while maintaining 30% air-filled porosity - critical for healthy root development in horticultural applications. For commercial growers seeking bulk vermiculite for sale, we offer volume discounts on palletized shipments.
Technical Specifications and Standards
| Parameter | Test Method | Grade A | Grade B | Industrial Standard |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thermal Conductivity (W/m·K) | ASTM C518 | 0.055 | 0.062 | EN 13172 |
| Fire Rating | ASTM E119 | Class A | Class A | BS 476-20 |
| Particle Size (mm) | ISO 9001 | 1-4 | 3-8 | Horticulture Grade |
| Moisture Content (%) | ASTM D2216 | 3-8 | 3-8 | USDA Standard |
| Water Absorption (%) | ISO 2896 | 220-300 | 180-250 | Horticulture Grade |
Material Performance Analysis
Industrial Applications
Industrial Insulation
As loose-fill material in attics (R-value 2.6 per inch) or in composite fireproofing sprays for structural steel protection.
Hydroponic Systems
As primary substrate in ebb-and-flow systems due to neutral pH and excellent capillary action properties.
High-Temperature Gaskets
Compressed with binders to withstand furnace operations up to 1200°C.
Technical FAQ: Vermiculite Insulation
What's the difference between expanded and unexpanded vermiculite?
Unexpanded vermiculite is the raw hydrous phyllosilicate mineral with typical density of 2.4-2.7g/cm³. When heated above 200°C during exfoliation, it expands 15-30 times, developing the accordion-like structure responsible for its insulation properties.
What ASTM standards apply to vermiculite insulation?
Key standards include ASTM C516 for prefabricated insulation, ASTM C332 for loose-fill applications, and ASTM C612 for composite board applications. Fire testing follows ASTM E119 protocols.
How does particle size affect insulation performance?
Smaller particles (1-4mm) provide superior thermal resistance (0.048-0.052 W/m·K) and compaction resistance. Larger grades (5-8mm) offer better drainage in horticultural applications.
Why choose vermiculite over mineral wool?
Vermiculite has superior fire resistance without binders (Class A fire rating), natural composition with no artificial fibers, and significantly better moisture handling characteristics.
What's the R-value per inch for vermiculite?
Depending on density and grade, R-values range from R-2.4 to R-2.8 per inch when installed as loose-fill insulation at recommended densities.
Is asbestos contamination a concern?
Modern vermiculite from regulated sources contains no asbestos. Our products undergo XRD mineralogical analysis with results available upon request.
What are the packaging options?
We provide vermiculite in 100L woven bags (approx. 9kg), 1m³ bulk bags for large projects, and custom packaging solutions.
Industry Validation
"Recent material science research confirms vermiculite's exceptional performance in passive fire protection systems. Its lamellar structure creates thermal barriers that resist temperatures exceeding 1100°C without structural collapse."
The International Horticultural Society's 2022 Sustainable Gardening Report notes: "Expanded vermiculite demonstrates unmatched water/nutrient retention capabilities among mineral substrates - decreasing watering frequency by 40% while increasing seedling survival rates."
Academic resources supporting vermiculite applications:
Request Custom Bulk Vermiculite for Sale Quotations
Contact Hebei Junlan for premium-grade expanded vermiculite solutions
Phone: +86-15102245195 | Mobile: 13323215153
Email: vicky@glorystarexport.com
View Product SpecificationsIndustry Citations
- Green Building Council. (2023). Natural Insulation Materials Report. https://www.worldgbc.org/resources
- European Vermiculite Association Technical Standards. (2024). https://europermiculite.org/technical-documents/
- National Institute of Standards and Technology. (2023). Fire Resistance in Building Materials. https://www.nist.gov/publications
Post time: Jul-22-2025
.png "About")
