Loose fill chips : vermiculite

What is vermiculite loose fill?

Vermiculite is a 100% natural material that can be used for void fill. It is made from aluminium-iron-magnesium-silicates and consists of thin, flat flakes. Also known as Micafil, it is sold in 100 litre (3.5 cubic ft) bags of lightweight chips and it is a great alternative to polystyrene chips.

This is a highly absorbent material, making it ideal for packaging containers of liquids or other items that may leak. It is also fireproof, so can be used to pack flammable and other hazardous goods. Vermiculite is lightweight and can easily be poured around irregular objects straight from a hopper or other dispenser.

Please note that this material is sold in smaller bags than our standard loose fill chips. This makes it considerably easier to handle and store.

Vermiculite has many non-packaging uses, including the following:

• Mix with cement to make a lightweight concrete, or with gypsum to create plaster
• As insulation for lofts and to fill cavities
• In horticulture as a soil-less growing medium, or to germinate seeds
• Inside Aga cookers as insulation to maintain high temperatures
• For filtering waste water and absorbing hazardous liquids for disposal
• In fireproofing

For more information on this product, click here to download a spec sheet.

Does UK vermiculite contain asbestos?

No, vermiculite mines and products are regularly tested in the UK and the rest of the world to ensure they do not contain asbestos. 

Is Micafil the same as vermiculite?

Yes, Micafil is another name for vermiculite.