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Vermiculite-Asbestos ConnectionVermiculite ores often contain a range of other minerals including, in some cases, asbestos. Asbestos is not a major contaminant, and only a few ore deposits have been found to contain more than trace amounts of asbestos minerals. Unfortunately, the largest vermiculite mine in the United States, the Libby, Montana mine, was found to have heavy asbestos contamination. The former vermiculite mine in Libby was found to have tremolite asbestos as well as winchite and richterite (both fibrous amphiboles). Pure vermiculite does not contain asbestos and is non-toxic, but it can become contaminated if there is a presence of a secondary mineral called diopside in and around the vermiculite deposits. Basically, after millions of years of weatherization, the biotite turns into vermiculite and the diopside turns into asbestos. This results in the commingling of the minerals. Because of the high concentrations of asbestos found at Libby, and the resulting health issues, all vermiculite mines have been tested, and continue to be tested, for asbestos levels. There seems to be convincing evidence that the asbestos concentrations were unique to Libby. At all of the mines currently supplying vermiculite to processing companies in North America, Europe and elsewhere throughout the world, testing is required. To date, asbestos in those materials has either not been found or detected, or only trace amounts below current regulatory limits have been detected. They all comply with current EPA, OSHA, and international regulatory requirements. One exception is the Virginia Vermiculite mine in Louisa, Virginia, which has been found to contain high levels of asbestos. Asbestos Exposure Risks Asbestos fibers may be released into the air by the disturbance of asbestos-containing material during product use, demolition work or mining operations. Exposure may occur only when the asbestos-containing material is airborne. When asbestos becomes airborne, the fibers can be inhaled into the lungs, where they can cause significant health problems. Continued exposure can increase the amount of fibers that remain in the lung. Asbestos fibers lodged in lung tissue over time may cause serious lung diseases including, asbestosis, lung cancer or mesothelioma. If there is a concern about possible exposure, consult with a physician who specializes in lung diseases, also known as a pulmonologist. References: |
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