Vermiculite - W.R. Grace Company

Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral that, when heated, expands anywhere from 8 to 30 times its original size. The result is a lightweight, fire-resistant, and odorless substance that can used as an insulation in attics and walls and is also used in fertilizers and pesticides. Because it is cheap and readily available, it is a common ingredient.

In its pure form, vermiculite itself is not toxic. However, from 1919 to 1990, over 70% of all the vermiculite sold in the U.S. came from an asbestos contaminated mine in Libby, Montana. This vermiculite was often packaged under the name Zonolite, made by W.R. Grace.

Because it is near impossible to determine if your vermiculite came from the mine in Libby, you should assume it is contaminated with asbestos and take the proper safety steps. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has written a brochure entitled "Protect Your Family from Asbestos-Contaminated Vermiculite" for people who believe they have vermiculite insulation in their homes.

It is important to take precautions with polluted vermiculite as asbestos exposure can lead to serious illnesses, such as mesothelioma, a cancer of the lungs, abdomen, and/or chest. If you believe you may have inhaled asbestos fibers, mesothelioma symptoms to be aware of are:

• Difficulty in swallowing
• Painful breathing
• Persistent dry cough
• Unexplained weight loss
• Abdominal pain

If you or someone you know has been exposed to asbestos as a result of handling or being involved with Vermiculite, and if you think such exposure may have caused you or your loved one to become ill with mesothelioma or any other form of asbestos related disease, please contact the lawyers at Clapper, Patti Schweizer & Mason for more information.