When storing vermiculite, its physicochemical properties and potential risks must be comprehensively considered. Special attention should be paid to moisture prevention, fire prevention, pollution prevention, and prevention of mechanical damage to ensure its stable performance and extend its service life. The following are specific precautions and their reasons:
1. Moisture and Rain Protection
Reason: Although vermiculite is an inorganic mineral, it is highly hygroscopic. Long-term exposure to a humid environment will cause it to absorb moisture, leading to clumping and increased density, which in turn affects its thermal insulation performance and construction adaptability (e.g., difficulty in even spreading or cutting).
Measures: Store in a dry, well-ventilated warehouse or indoors, avoiding open-air storage.
Lay moisture-proof materials (such as plastic sheeting or pallets) on the ground, maintaining a 10-15cm distance from the ground.
Cover with waterproof tarpaulins when stacking, or use sealed packaging (such as plastic bags or woven bags lined with plastic film).
2. Fire Prevention and High Temperature Protection
Reason: Vermiculite itself is non-flammable (Class A fire retardant), but the presence of flammable materials (such as packaging materials, other goods) or high-temperature sources (such as heating equipment, direct sunlight) in the storage environment may cause a fire or lead to the deterioration of vermiculite's properties (such as structural changes at high temperatures).
Measures: Keep away from fire sources, heat sources, and flammable materials. Smoking and open flame operations are prohibited in the warehouse.
Avoid direct sunlight. Take shading measures (such as curtains and shade nets) during high temperatures in summer.
Equip with fire-fighting equipment (such as fire extinguishers and sandboxes) and check their effectiveness regularly.
3. Prevention of Pollution and Corrosion
Reason: Vermiculite easily absorbs dust, oil, or chemicals. Contamination may affect its compatibility with adhesives, reducing construction effectiveness (e.g., the bond strength with mortar in external wall insulation systems).
Measures: Store separately, avoiding contact with chemicals, oil, dust, etc.
Keep the warehouse clean, regularly sweeping the floor and shelves.
For long-term storage, it is recommended to use sealed packaging or containers to minimize contact with air.
4. Prevention of Mechanical Damage and Pressure
Reason: Vermiculite particles are brittle and easily break under heavy pressure or impact, leading to changes in particle size distribution and affecting insulation performance (e.g., reduced porosity, increased thermal conductivity).
Measures: Handle with care, avoiding throwing or violent vibration.
Stacking height should not exceed 1.5 meters to prevent collapse and damage.
Use dedicated shelves or pallets to distribute pressure and avoid direct stacking on the ground.
5. Categorized Storage and Labeling Management
Reason: Vermiculite of different specifications (e.g., particle size, expansion ratio) or uses needs to be stored separately to avoid mixing and causing construction problems (e.g., uneven particle size affecting the smoothness of the finish).
Measures: Store vermiculite according to specifications and batches, and set up clear labels (e.g., labels, color differentiation).
Establish an inventory ledger to record information such as the date of receipt, quantity, and specifications, facilitating first-in, first-out (FIFO) management.
