Why Vermiculite Is Used In The Construction Industry - An Overview

By Author: Jake Deering
Total Articles: 24
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Did you know that when it comes to fireproofing a premise, the most commonly used ingredient is vermiculite? Also, the element has been in use since decades. Now, that mostly all commercial projects demand fireproofing, the use of vermiculite has becomes more pronounced.
 
Vermiculite and its Use in Plasters
Among several applications of vermiculite, the ones that are used for fireproofing plasters deserve special mention. Plasters these days, are mostly reinforced with vermiculite spray to attain fireproofing. In a majority of cases, it is found that sand plaster is susceptible to fire. after catching fire, sand plaster explodes and gets easily destroyed.
 
When reinforced with vermiculite, plaster can act very differently. Along with being light-weight vermiculite plaster is fireproof which means its usage in facilities like oil refineries or urban constructions cannot be ignored. Plus, this particular variety of plaster offer combined perks like fireproofing and weight reduction.
 
Vermiculite is widely used in masonry construction. When mixed with ...
... vermiculite, masonry works can withstand a large extent of fire.
 
In the following lines we will discuss the benefits of vermiculite. Let’s check them all:
 
Lightweight
So, why do you think vermiculite is used? One of the biggest benefits of using vermiculite is, it weighs around 60% less than different sand products.
 
Insulating
Vermiculite is at least 4X more resistant to fire or heat. Unlike sand, vermiculite is more resistant to heat transmission, allowing owners to enjoy more on utility bills. Also, applying Vermiculite spray coating on a surface can help conserve energy.
 
Fire Retarding Ability
Vermiculite is well known for being a fire retardant. It is non-combustible and is 100% non-toxic, which means the material has the capacity to provide fire protection for up to 5 hours, with minimum thickness and weight.
 
Adaptable
Another chief reason why vermiculite or vermiculite spray used on surfaces is because the material is highly adaptable. It can be mixed and used in different proportions with other plastering materials.
 
Durability
Vermiculite is known for being extremely durable as the material cannot decay or rot. It is mostly inert. Even though vermiculite is solid, it is not brittle or is not affected easily by temperature changes. Vermiculite can endure any freeze-thaw exposures. Vermiculite coating can be applied in a wide range of commercial buildings.
 
The mineral with naturally fire resisting capabilities, when sprayed on steel or other surfaces provides a light-weight and effective protection against fire. Whenever a surface is sprayed with vermiculite, it adds to fire retardancy of a structure. Vermiculite expands when it is being exposed to heat or fire. It creates a protective space, where flames are stopped from a spread.
 
About the Author: This contribution has been made by  Jake Deering who has written a number of articles on Vermiculite Spray and provides fruitful information.