Note: This method isn’t suitable if you’re adding Vermiculite insulation. For more information, please refer to the following documents. Written by Tara Strand on May 4, 2018. Vermiculite ores may contain a variety of other minerals including asbestos, which, if present in significant quantities, could pose a health risk to producers and end users. We also do not recommend opening walls, ceilings, or floors to look for vermiculite insulation. Asbestos fibers in vermiculite are too small to be seen by the naked eye. Asbestos encapsulation costs between $2 and $6 per. 2 mm 0 – 20 Melting Point (°C) ~1330 % SiO 2 38. How I can figure out if there is asbestos in Thanks in advance Routa [email protected] Show More. Asbestos in the air can be inhaled and cause lung damage. Answered in 12 minutes by:05-08-2010, 08:09 AM. Only a trained technician using a microscope can see asbestos fibers. Other constituent analysis are used to determine if the vermiculite is consistent with Zonolite. 2. More than 70% of vermiculite sold in the U. A member of the phyllosilicate group of minerals, it resembles mica in appearance. If you disturb the insulation, you may inhale some asbestos fibers. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) recommends that if you have vermiculite, it’s best to assume it contains asbestos and leave it alone. Health related effects of high exposure are slow to develop these usually take at least 10 - 20 years. If a professional finds asbestos, hire a qualified asbestos removal specialist to remove it safely. Loose-fill asbestos insulation was popular for many decades, and houses that were insulated in the nineties. g. Asbestos Insulation. Vermiculite has a high cation-exchange capacity (CEC) at 100–150 meq /100 g. But now that we know the damage asbestos has on our lungs, removing this undesirable building material has. 5–6. Worryingly, other commonly building materials have been found to contain asbestos. The concerns about the dangers with vermiculite insulation in the UK stem from the fact that until the 1990s, most vermiculite originated from a mine in America which also contained asbestos deposits. S. The EPA says that vermiculite insulation, which is the pebbly stuff found in attics of many older homes, is only risky if it contains more than one percent asbestos. Vermiculite is a mineral that was once all the rage in building insulation. The home inspector got it tested and it came back composed of cellulose and non fibrous materials, no. Scientists with the United States Geology Survey (USGS) have created a hand-held spectrometer to determine if vermiculite insulation contains deadly amphibole asbestos. from 1919 to 1990 came from a mine near Libby, Montana which contained asbestos deposits. Zonolite Insulation. Airborne asbestos fibers present a health risk through inhalation, so the first step is to not disturb the material, which could release fibers into the air. In this article series we also give the history of the Libby vermiculite mine, its purchase by WR Grace Corporation, the asbestos-related bankruptcy filing, asbestos abatement cost claims & filings & the current ZAI settlement trust that may assist building tenants or owners with vermiculite removal costs. See moreAsbestos My attic has vermiculite insulation in it. 5 – 3 mm 100 Kg/m 3The cost to remove insulation with asbestos in it can cost anywhere from $800 to $15,000. When vermiculite is heated to very high temperatures, it expands into long strands resembling small worms. Price of Micafil loft insulation. The majority of all vermiculite insulation pro-duced before 1990 used contaminated vermicu-lite from Libby. The pictures in the center of this pamphlet and on the cover show several samples of vermiculite attic insulation. R. Texture: Asbestos-containing insulation was typically heat. With a minimum of a half-percent of asbestos, up to 10%, it was considered a perfect fireproofing material. The 37BVMB is a masonry block fill vermiculite that has a granular material which provides loose fill masonry insulation. Airborne asbestos Last published: May 11,. Bulk sampling is reliable only when over 1% of the material is asbestos. At the height of asbestos insulation use, there were many different brands, including Zonolite, Kaylo and Limpet. Federal guidelines are weak. EXFOLIATED VERMICULITE DESCRIPTION This product is a grade of exfoliated vermiculite having a controlled particle size distribution. When it comes to asbestos, it rarely needs introduced at this point. Removing deteriorating roofing shingles and siding containing asbestos, or tampering with roofing felt that contains asbestos. Used as kids bedrooms ever since. We’ll listen to your story and explain your options. This ore is now known to contain a group of mineral fibers called “Libby Asbestos. I have read that it is one of the brands that are ok. Sold in multi-litre bags, this insulation can be installed by both builders and homeowners and is. Used in older homes, it is often contaminated with asbestos. 30m2 to a depth of 100mm. from exposure to asbestos. Finally, a cowl is added to stop rain and bird egress causing issues. Dupré Micafil Vermiculite Loose Fill Loft Insulation: Best loose-fill loft insulation. For several years, it was used as insulation in residential and industrial applications. We've used the loft for years for storing toys, christmas stuff and general tat. , most vermiculite insulation containing asbestos was sourced from a mine near Libby, Montana, which was active until 1990. Asbestos litigation forced it to file for bankruptcy in 2001. The EPA recommends that vermiculite insulation be left undisturbed. Colors to look out for in these pebbles are grayish, brown, or silvery gold. Cellulose Insulation. The EPA recommends that vermiculite insulation be left undisturbed. This product is irritant free, lightweight and fireproof up to. It is a limited-expansion clay with a medium shrink–swell capacity. A benefit of vermiculite compared to other insulation substances is that it can be poured into small or difficult areas that other insulation cannot reach. As over 70% of all vermiculite sold in the U. Over time, accumulated asbestos fibers can cause tissue inflammation and scarring, which can affect breathing and lead to serious health problems. This expanded form, and the fact that vermiculite does not burn, made the material suitable for use as loft insulation. R. Pure vermiculite is not dangerous. So, to recap, vermiculite insulation was banned due to health concerns surrounding asbestos contamination. It can also be used for a number of other things such as insulation in lofts or between floors base for gas coal fires and garden bedding and potting. Approximately one million homes in the United States contain vermiculite attic insulation. Call us directly or order Mica gasket material online today! American Seal & Packing (714) 593-9780. 6 hours ago · Vermiculite Insulation. Airborne asbestos is dangerous because certain forms of it are quite effective and triggering a deadly form of lung cancer. To protect workers from asbestos-contaminated vermiculite, any vermiculite from the Libby mine should be considered potentially contaminated. If asbestos is not in the air, it is not dangerous to your lungs. Micalite Boards is checked by an independent laboratory for the presence of Asbestos. R. Vermiculite masonry fill creates a barrier against moisture, heat, and sound. . Examples of products that might contain asbestos are: • fireproofing and insulation in buildings • insulation for pipes and boilers • roofing shingles and tarsResidential asbestos insulation is likely to be unsafe. Hello! I found on the attic of my 1956 house a few bags from old insulation Micafil vermiculite. Is there any way besides getting a lab test done, to know if it contains asbestos? The bags are old and I took a picture of them before burning them. Does vermiculite insulation contain asbestos? Pure vermiculite should not contain asbestos. Would the UK regulations then in force allowing the bagged sale of this material - I estimate I purchased the equivalent of 10-12 bags x 100litres. 37. Wet-Spray Cellulose - Used as the blown-in method, a fine mist of water is added to the hose that allows for better heat retention and better noise reduction. Although this ecological study cannot directly link exposure to Libby vermiculite with asbestos-related disease, it suggests a need for additional studies in these areas. CARA has been formulated to work with Class A fire-resistant substrates and will not contribute to a fire…. But don’t worry about inspecting it closely—if you suspect it’s vermiculite, back away gently without disturbing it. Carson, Dunlop & Associates Ltd. Vermiculite is an insulation that comes in pellets ranging in colour from silver-gold to grey-brown. Asbestos fibers. Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral mined around the world and has been used for insulation and agricultural purposes. It is one of the best insulators available today and this is why it is commonly used in. These panels contain. Libby is one of the largest asbestos contamination sites in the world, leading to vermiculite insulation contaminated with the mineral. Vermiculite insulation particle Typical vermiculite insulation . 54 at a total cost of $8,424. Other common uses are as thermal and sound insulation, construction material, insulation material, and for lightweight, absorbent packaging material. The insulation is delivered in light, 100 Litre bags which are easy to handle, even on a ladder or in a cramped loft space. Grace, was responsible for 80% of the world’s vermiculite, and vermiculite attic insulation could be purchased locally and installed. However, to be safe and in the absence of evidence to the contrary, it is reasonable to assume that if your building has older vermiculite-based insulation, it may contain some amphibole asbestos. If your home was built before the 1990s and contains this texture and color. Q & A. Guide to using Micafil Vermiculite for Loft Insulation - Dupre Minerals. OTS became interested in asbestos-contaminated vermiculite as a result of itsThe Micafil Vermiculite Loose Fill Loft Insulation is a naturally occurring mineral expanded at a high temperature to produce aerated particles 90% air by volume. 1The Mi Flues Screw-FIX Insulation Back Filler is a new concept to make the job of back filling your chimney with vermiculite as easy as possible when using a. If you have vermiculite insulation in your home, you should assume this material may be contaminated with asbestos and be aware of steps you can take to. How can I tell if my vermiculite insulation contains asbestos? You should assume that vermiculite insulation is from Libby and treat the material as if it contained asbestos by not disturbing it or by using a trained professional if it needs to be removed. Extracted from the mine between 1920 and 1990, this vermiculite insulation was sold in large bags mainly, but not exclusively, under the trademark Zonolite® Attic Insulation. Under the settlement, Grace has funded the Zonolite Attic Insulation Trust Fund from which eligible Claimants can be reimbursed for legitimate claims up to 55% of removal and reinsulation cost with a cap of $5,500. Micafil AG. The three lung diseases closely associated with asbestos are:3. Trade Sign in or apply for trade prices. Carry on browsing if. Testing of vermiculite insulation for the presence of asbestos fibers can be performed by specialty laboratories, however testing can be very expensive and may give false results depending on the methods used. You may hire a Certified Asbestos Professional (or licensed or certified Home Inspector ) to collect the sample for you. It was heat-treated to create fire-resistant ceiling and insulation panels. Table 3. Prior to its. Micafil Chimney Insulation Specs. It fixes the chimney liner at the top of the stack using plates and clamps. Modern vermiculite insulation, such as Micafil, will not cause health problems for homeowners. And we never charge for anything unless you receive money in your pocket. 1 m 2 K/W per metre of insulation. Today, most vermiculite is safe. We do not recommend you take samples of the loft insulation. The most common asbestos-containing vermiculite insulation is zonolite. Made from aluminium-iron-magnesium silicates, it is a natural mineral used for void filling. Modern vermiculite insulation will not contain asbestos, and is considered a safe product for use around buildings. Here are some signs to look for that indicate your loose-fill insulation may be contaminated with asbestos: Your house was constructed prior to 1990. Vermiculite from the Libby mine in Montana, USA is known to contain high levels of amphibolic asbestos. from exposure to asbestos. Vermiculite Insulation Identification Photographs. in balloon. tested for $100 for 5 day turnaround, or $200 for 24 hour turnaround at. . Vermiculite is tested and found to contain asbestos. nearly an inch long. The following photographs show typical vermiculite insulation. Vermiculite is a mineral used in many commercial and consumer products including insulation. Asbestos as loose-fill insulation looks like shredded cotton. Government actions and regulations were put in place to phase out its use. The medium is considered safe for commercial and personal use. English Deutsch Français Español Português Italiano Român Nederlands Latina Dansk Svenska Norsk Magyar Bahasa Indonesia Türkçe Suomi Latvian Lithuanian česk. Very happy with the product. You are over thinking this. Item Code: 487280161. Asbestos has never been detected in Micafil vermiculite. nearly an inch long. Removal of vermiculite insulation can be costly and complicated; but in some cases, you may be able to leave the material in place with proper precautions. products. Recent findings about vermiculite ore contaminated with tremolite asbestos have caused. 1998 became a member of the ABB group. Lots of non-contaminated Vermiculite exists and is used as much in. Exfoliated vermiculite is used in the friction brake linings market, high temperature insulation, loft insulation, various construction products, animal feeds, horticulture and many other industrial applications. The mineral was popular during much of the 20th century as insulation, thanks in part to its easy application: It could simply be poured by the bagful. Disposes of all materials, disposable equipment and clothing used in the job in sealed, leak-proof, and labeled heavy-duty plastic bags. This Dupre Vermiculite loose-fill insulation is a highly absorbent protector suitable for packaging, chimney lining, loft insulation and high-temperature insulation. Vermiculite is the geological name given to a group of hydrated laminar minerals which are aluminium-iron-magnesium silicates. Class A Refractory Adhesive. C $78. Thanks for submitting! Vermiculite Insulation Removal - Remediation Services Company in Winnipeg, MB. Asbestos parts included the 6 1/2 foot nose cone, electrical and thermal insulation, conduits, etc. There is limited evidence that asbestos exposure. People a…Buy Micafil Vermiculite Large Grade 100ltr at trade exclusive prices. 2. 2009). Why should I be concerned about asbestos-contaminated vermiculite insulation? A mine near Libby, Montana was the source of over 70 percent of all vermiculite sold in the U. 1998 became a member of the ABB group. Vermiculite insulation is probably not a large concern, but only as long as it stays undisturbed in the attic. was sourced from a mine near Libby, Montana, which was later found to be contaminated with asbestos. 1 milligrams per cubic meter, which is the lowest possible exposure. Spray-On Asbestos Insulation. The Environmental Protection Agency also includes information on its webpage about how to protect your family from asbestos-contaminated vermiculite insulation. Asbestos in vermiculite insulation looks like rocky gravel. Vermiculite was first identified in 1881 in a mine near Libby,. , Blanket insulation consisting Vermiculite insulation is a pebble-like, pour-in product and is usually gray-brown or silver-gold in color. To correctly calculate a U-value, all layers of insulation must be included and not the vermiculite layer. Wear a respirator and shower/wash clothes right after doing the job. Asbestos Packing materials. vermiculite at the lower portions (as asbestos settles to the bottom) - The cost for remediation is anywhere from $6,000 to $15,000, and possibly. 1 The Mi Flues Screw-FIX Insulation Back Filler is a new concept to make the job of back filling your chimney with vermiculite as easy as possible when using a. We use cookies to make your experience better. Is vermiculite insulation a problem? Prior to 1990, much of the world's supply of vermiculite came from a mine near Libby, Montana. , talc or vermiculite) that contain asbestos should also be regarded as ‘carcinogenic to humans’” (Straif et al. Since spray-on asbestos. 0). Never disturb the insulation when preforming the inspection and make sure to inform the client that it will limit the attic inspection. Some vermiculite produced at Libby Mine in Montana from the 1920s until 1990, sold primarily under the brand name Zonolite®, has been found to contain asbestos. A variety of regulations are in place that should prevent inadvertent exposure to asbestos in vermiculites, but great care is needed if true asbestos hazards are to be. Vermiculite likely contains asbestos but not enough to be a major hazard. Vermiculite is used in some potting soil for plant growth, and it appears as bright gold or silver flakes. It is not always necessary to remove the asbestos from the workplace or home. Is vermiculite insulation a problem? potential to release asbestos fibers into the air. It was once used to insulate crawlspaces (attics, attics with access doors, garrets, etc. Vermiculite from Libby, Montana was used in the majority of vermiculite insulation in the U. Vermiculite Insulation and Asbestos. Composition – This type of asbestos insulation looks like pebbles with a grayish-brown, or silvery gold coloring. 'However, much vermiculite asbestos that had been installed decades ago was contaminated with. This is because such a material can easily lead to inhalation of asbestos fibres in the air even. Because it is lightweight, odorless, and fire-resistant, it has been used in many different products. This sort of insulation typically comes in the form of Zonolite, a common form of insulation that appears as a pebble-like substance. Also, it comes from naturally occurring materials on Earth. It comes in small pellets, such as those used for wood stoves. If you are removing Zonolite brand attic insulation from your home, the trust will cover up to 55% of the cost of removal. Average asbestos garage roof removal cost: £1,650. A large portion of all vermiculite used in the United States was mined in Libby,. I found on the attic of my 1956 house a few bags from old insulation Micafil vermiculite. Also known as Micafil, it is sold in 100 litre (3. The EPA defines an asbestos-containing material (ACM) as having greater than 1 percent asbestos. Testing the vermic by TEM analysis should have been their first step. Vermiculite and asbestos. However, most of the country’s vermiculite was mined in Libby, Montana, in a mine that also had a natural deposit of asbestos. contains asbestos? The majority of all vermiculite insulation pro-duced before 1990 used contaminated vermicu-lite from Libby. For use in horticulture, it's sold as lightweight, absorbent. Made from a naturally occurring mineral, vermiculite insulation can be poured within your loft for a simple-to-install insulation option. Shown (from Rosato) is a U. The pictures in the center of this pamphlet and on the cover show several samples of vermiculite attic insulation. Zonolite insulation, an American vermiculite tainted with a lethal form of asbestos known as tremolite, has already been linked to hundreds of deaths in the United States. Thermal Resistance: R Value: 16. Price of Micafil loft insulation. Many types of asbestos insulation, including loose-fill, pipe wrap and spray-on, were friable and easily released asbestos fibers. It developed the world’s first RIP bushings. According to Healthdirect Australia, exposure to asbestos may increase the risk of asbestosis, mesothelioma, lung cancer, pleural disease and other types of cancer. What you can do to reduce your exposure to asbestos. C. Show Less. 4. In general, vermiculite insulation is only dangerous when it is exposed. uk. Most commonly, vermiculite was used for insulation in walls and attics across the nation. Vermiculite insulation product from the Libby mine in Montana is known to contain high levels of amphibolic asbestos. co. What is the coverage area for 100L of Micafil vermiculite spread to a depth of 200mm as loft insulation? What is the coverage area for 100L of Micafil vermiculite spread to a depth of 200mm as loft insulation? 100 litres of micafil at 200mm will cover 0. #1. These questions & answers about Mica-Fil, a Munn & Steele Vermiculite Insulation product and its asbestos content were posted originally at MUNN & STEEL & MICA-FIL VERMICULITE BUILDING INSULATION - be sure to see that article. It can also be seen on ceilings, where it looks like a thick coating of cement. It has been determined that vermiculite from this mine may contain asbestos. There are six types, all of which are composed of long and thin fibrous crystals, each fibre (particulate with length substantially greater than width) being composed of many microscopic "fibrils" that can be released into the atmosphere by. Vermiculite Boards Ideal for wood burning stoves, Micalite™ boards are available in pre-cut shapes with decorative surfaces including Brick effect, Herringbone and Reeded patterns. In May 2003, EPA released information indicating that vermiculite contaminated with traces, less than 1% asbestos, is of significant concern. Older buildings and homes may have asbestos within products from hot water piping insulation to. Randolph. It is very flexible and is often used in attics and walls or wrapped around pipes. Vermiculite-fill insulation is one of the most common household materials that contain asbestos. Navy official photo of a Vanguard rocket. The biggest concern for asbestos in attics is vermiculite insulation. Vermiculite. 2. Airborne asbestos fibers present a health risk through inhalation, so the first step is to not disturb the material, which could release fibers into the air. CARA has been formulated to work with Class A fire-resistant substrates and will not contribute to a fire…. This is a natural occuring mineral expanded at high temperatures to produce expanded particles 90% air. In case you do not know already, then Vermiculite Micafil is a great loose-fill thermal insulating material that is designed to reduce the loss of heat in cold weather. The recent innovation should provide a time-saving technique for commercial and home inspectors. It also enables you to keep the interior cool in warmer weather. Wet-applied and pre-formed. This property also allows for high water. 01. mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer that is found in the thin lining of the lung, chest and the abdomen and heart. The short answer is that all research we've made to date indicates that Johns Manville Spintex® batt insulation was a rock wool or "mineral wool" foil faced insulating batt product. 5 lists the properties of vermiculite and some of the common smectite minerals found in nature. F. - They would need to gather 3 samples in different sections of the. Loft Insulation; Micafil Vermiculite Large Grade 100ltr; Micafil Vermiculite Large Grade 100ltr. The processing and manufacture of Vermiculite continues to be one of our core business markets. Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral compound that expands when heated. came from a mine near Libby, Montana, that contained a deposit of asbestos which contaminated the vermiculite. The mine became inactive in 1990, so vermiculite loose-fill. from exposure to asbestos. Vermiculite is a safe, inert naturally occurring mineral which is suitable for a wide range of applications where fire performance and thermal insulation is required. You’re probably wondering how asbestos crossed paths with vermiculite. Zonolite was often a gold-silver or a brown-gray in appearance. Vermiculite itself does not pose a health. Multi-purpose. New formulations were created after that with no asbestos deliberately added. Vermiculite contaminated with asbestos was used in the past as a poured-in insulation in attics. GRADES OF VERMICULITE 50 Nominal Particle Size (mm) Loose Bulk Density (Kg/m3) Applications Large Grade (Micafil) 3 – 15 70 Insulation, Concrete, Refractories, Packaging, Extra winter drainage, bulb culture and storage. CARA is a ready-to-use, air-drying refractory adhesive. £40. Opens in a new window or tab. 2. The expanded vermiculite is a light-weight, fire-resistant, and odorless material and has been used in numerous products, including insulation for. Asbestos garage roof removal cost. Among its popular uses were for wall and attic insulation in homes. , B. Often used in commercial and industrial building walls, ceilings and beams, spray-on asbestos looks like a bumpy white plastic coating. Available in a range grades, our loose fill Micafil product can be used for packaging, insulation and in the smaller grades, utilised for forms of fire protection. , most vermiculite insulation containing asbestos was sourced from a mine near. It is used minimally today. If you’d like help with filing a claim, please get in touch by email at help@asbestosclaims. If vermiculite insulation is confined and not exposed to the actively used spaces of the building, it poses very little risk. S. g. Being with features like lightweight, fireproof, and absorbent, it is the ideal loose fill. Asbestos insulation removal costs $10 to $25 per square foot, depending on the area size, condition, and accessibility. Grace. For years, Zonolite was used in the insulation of homes throughout the United. Likewise, numerous homes checked by the EPA proved NOT to have any asbestos in the vermiculite. It can be a grayish-brown or a silvery-gold in color. Vermiculite insulation and any insulation installed. As a result, vermiculite that had been. The pictures in the center of this pamphlet and on the cover show several samples of vermiculite attic insulation. Always use the services of a professional when removing. Federal guidelines are weak. Vermiculite in Buildings Built Prior to 1990, May Contain Asbestos. Recent findings about vermiculite ore contaminated with tremolite asbestos. The Libby mine also had natural asbestos deposits. We also do not recommend opening walls, ceilings, or floors to look for vermiculite insulation. This lightweight product creates a protective fill when placed into block core cavities. You can also call 608-261-6876 or visit our Asbestos Program page for a list of state-certified contractors and consultants. Vermiculite is a natural mineral that is odorless, fire-resistant, and lightweight which makes it ideal for use in building materials. Ironically, in both studies, some of. g. If you must remove any asbestos-containing vermiculite from your home, you should hire a licensed asbestos contractor. Did you find what you were looking for? Ask a Question. S. With over 20 years of experience we have grown. 2. Features and Benefits: Vermiculite is irritant free, ultra lightweight, non-toxic, odour free and fire proof up to 1300. Thermal Conductivity: k-value = 0. Zonolite Insulation. Vermiculite Void Fill. A. Next. Vermiculite Insulation Removal Costs. Vermiculite is actually a naturally occurring mineral; it is simple to handle, absorbs sound, resists decay, is. £21. products. Asbestos is a mineral fiber that can easily become airborne and causes serious lung diseases such as asbestosis, mesothelioma, and other types of lung cancer. So broad was the product’s reach, it’s believed that an estimated 824 cubic metres. Search. Vermiculite insulation; Zonolite insulation; Numerous asbestos companies manufactured and distributed the above products. | | Organization (s): U. 75 per inch. contain 1% or less asbestos, all loose vermiculite (e. While no longer produced, as many as 35 million U. co. Identifying Insulation That is Made From Vermiculite. Where does the asbestos come from and why is it a health concern? Vermiculite ores often contain a range of other minerals including, in some cases, asbestos. Asbestos is most dangerous when inhaled or when it comes into contact with the skin. g. • Loose Fill Insulation. It also has a decent R Value, around 2. 16 per cubic metre. The distinguishing properties of these clay minerals are: layer charge, accessible particle size (i. It has a neutral pH. R. The majority of homeowners need to be educated on the general danger of breathing and disturbing asbestos fiber. Other common uses are as thermal and sound insulation, construction material, insulation material, and for lightweight, absorbent packaging material. This is largely due to problems obtaining representative samples along with current uncertainties with existing testing techniques. Suitable for high temperature heating system insulation Lightweight and easy to handle Loose fill thermal insulation for interior use Used to produce lightweight and thermally efficient concretes and screeds A naturally occurring mineral Safe, inert and environmentally friendly; Dupre LTD MicaFil Grade Expanded Vermiculite 100L RVMV-L707D. Back-fill insulation. Livonia, Michigan. The difference between cellulose versus asbestos insulation varies greatly, as one material is more natural than the other. Ex-Worker Wins $36. USEPA offices have received a large number of phone calls from citizens concerned about vermiculite insulation in their home that might be contaminated with asbestos. Very simple to install poured straight from the bag. Loose Vermiculite. . Vermiculite also known as micafil is an excellent insulating material capable of withstanding temperatures in excess of 1000℃. Zonolite is a trademarked brand name of a vermiculite attic insulation that was sold between the 1940s and 1990s. Price and other details may vary based on product size and colour. to 5%, vermiculite’s contribution to asbestos content of vermiculite materials used for thermal system insulation, surfacing materials and other miscellaneous ACM (e. Asbestos is the name for a group of minerals that occur naturally in the ground. It was processed at 245 sites around the country, and contaminated vermiculite products were distributed nationally [ATSDR 2001a]. Vermiculite is used in some potting soil for plant growth, and it appears as bright gold or silver flakes. Confirming whether your vermiculite insulation contains asbestos is the first step to determining what laws apply. However Health Canada has found some brands of vermiculite insulation may contain tremolite asbestos and could present a health hazard.