Oregon is only one of many states concerned about vermiculite.
Two of the largest mines for vermiculite, one in South Africa and one in Libby, Montana, were found to be contaminated by asbestos. Asbestos occurs naturally in some locations. When vermiculite from these mines entered processing plants around the United States, some states decided to ban the substance. Does this Spark an idea?
What Does Vermiculite Look Like?
Natural vermiculite resembles mica. It has a shiny appearance. During processing, vermiculite is heated until the moisture inside is converted to steam, making the vermiculite puff like a piece of popcorn. The result is a light, fluffy mineral that is used for many purposes.
How is Vermiculite Used?
Vermiculite is best known as an ingredient in potting soils. The light, fluffy bits are added to aid aeration for healthy plant roots. It is also used in home insulation and for decorative purposes. Vermiculite is also used in those packets that instantly warm your hands. Vermiculite is the crunchy thing you feel in the packs as you activate them.
Asbestos
Vermiculite that has been weathered by sun and rain degrades into asbestos naturally. During mining, the asbestos is routinely removed to a separate portion of the mine. Contaminated vermiculite from Libby, Montana was shipped to several processing sites, including one in Portland, Oregon. When the Oregon government found out about the contaminated shipment, they closed down the processing plant.
Repercussions
Due to the asbestos contamination, plants for processing vermiculite, mixing potting soil, manufacturing of home insulation and many other industries that used vermiculite had to be shut down and cleaned up. This affected plants in Oregon, Washington, Montana and many other states. Because vermiculite is used so extensively, it is not possible to know how many contaminated products may still be out there.
Regulations
While no law was passed officially banning vermiculite since it is safe on its own, tests are being done to ascertain the degree of contamination to processing plants and the products made from vermiculite. Oregon is only one of many states still trying to make sure its population is safe from any potential asbestos contamination.
Outcome
Oregon published a statement in 2006 reporting the outcome of the cleaning of the processing plant. Tests are still being performed to make sure contaminated vermiculite is not being used in any products. In an effort to protect the public, all vermiculite imported into Oregon must pass tests to ensure it is not contaminated by asbestos.
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