Absorbent Vermiculite Technical Data Sheet

Introduction

Companies storing chemical and hazardous wastes frequently pay too little attention to the packaging media of the products they are handling. Vermiculite as a liquid absorber is a light, non-combustible mineral which, although insoluble in water, oils and organic solvents generally, will absorb many times its own weight of various liquids and yet remain free-flowing.

Source

The source of the mineral for the manufacture of Vermiculite is a naturally occurring soft micaceous ore. this is mined and classified into grades, each having a specified range of particle sizes.

Manufacture

Exfoliation of vermiculite is achieved by passing the vermiculite ore through a furnace chamber. Residence time is just sufficient to ensure exfoliation; this occurs at right angles to the cleavage planes, causing the flakes to expand into concertina-shaped granules. The granules are then evacuated from the chamber immediately, air classified, cooled and packed. Good exfoliation can only be achieved by a high rate of heat transfer and rapid generation of steam within the crude material.

Applications

Vermiculite is ideal for:

• Removal of chemical spills
• Absorption and removal of oil spillages from floors
• Nuclear waster material
• Transportation of hazardous chemicals
• Carriage of liquid fertilisers, herbicides, insecticides, soil wettants, and vegetative oils for animal feedstuff
• Absorption for molten materials
• Fat absorbent for barbeque bases

Benefits

Because of the concertina-like structure of vermiculite it has greater absorptive powers than many of the absorbents now in use. Unlike sawdust and polystyrene it is completely rot-proof.

Performance

Absorption capacities of Vermiculite are as follows:

When used in conjunction with a potential flammable liquid, vermiculite does not render the fluid non-flammable, neutral or less hazardous. Saturated absorbent containing flammable liquids should be disposed of promptly.

Prices and Conditions of Sales

Prices will be quoted on request on a volumetric basis, ex works plus haulage. All quotations given, orders placed and materials supplied are subject to our standard conditions of trading, a copy of which is available on request.

Packaging

Vermiculite is normally packed in heavy-duty non-returnable plastic bags holding an average 100 litres when packed. Alternative packaging is available to special order.

Supply

Vermiculite can be collected from our works or delivered direct anywhere in the UK in various load sizes from an economic minimum of 50 bags (5m) up to a mximum vehicle capacity of 750+ bags (75m). Trial quantities can also be arranged.