Vermiculite is a naturally occurring mineral that expands when heated, creating a lightweight, fire-resistant material. It is a type of hydrous phyllosilicate mineral that has a distinctive accordion-like appearance. Vermiculite is commonly used in construction for insulation, as a soil conditioner in gardening, and in fireproofing applications. Its ability to absorb water and retain nutrients also makes it popular in horticulture for improving soil aeration and moisture retention.
