Vermiculite is a natural mineral that expands when heated, making it a lightweight, fire-resistant, and highly absorbent material. Widely used in horticulture, it improves soil aeration, moisture retention, and root growth, making it ideal for seed starting and potting mixes. In construction, vermiculite serves as insulation and fireproofing material due to its heat-resistant properties. It is also valued in packaging, animal care, and industrial applications.