Because of its low density and good insulation properties exfoliated vermiculite is used in building boards. These boards are often used as a ‘core’ in fire doors, to build fire barriers, to encase or construct ductwork and to protect steel building element from the effects of fire.
- Low pressure spray applied commercial and industrial structural steel fire protection products use exfoliated vermiculite to improve the application characteristics and to impart a high degree of fire resistance.
- Exfoliated vermiculite is very efficient at retaining moisture, and in the event of a fire this turns to steam which has a cooling effect on the steel substrate and thus delays its temperature rise. Vermiculite concentrate is also used in the production of fire resistant gypsum plasterboard (drywall or wallboard).
