Chemically Processed Vermiculite

Chemical treatments can cause the layered structure of vermiculite to expand or delaminate, producing very high aspect ratio particles. Such dispersions play an important role in the coating of both organic and inorganic fibre products. This treatment substantially increases the thermal stability of fibres. A whole new family of vermiculite products can be generated by varying the chemical process. It is possible to produce flexible films, papers and coatings, and to make specialised additives for various industries.

Developments in this area of research have indicated that it may be feasible to manufacture complex silicate structures which, when polymerised, would form inorganic analogues of organic polymer systems with unique properties of flexibility and fire resistance.

Production Process: