Explore More
Natural Insulation, Fireproofing & Workability Enhancement
Sepiolite brings unique advantages to the construction industry through its extremely low thermal conductivity, inherent fire resistance, and remarkable ability to improve the workability of cement, lime, and gypsum-based products. From insulating boards to fireproof coatings to heritage restoration mortars, sepiolite enhances building material performance while maintaining a fully natural, non-toxic composition.
With a thermal conductivity of just 0.06 W/m·K, sepiolite is one of the most effective natural insulating minerals. Mixed into boards, panels, and coatings, it creates building envelope solutions that significantly reduce heating and cooling energy consumption.
Sepiolite is inherently non-combustible and retains structural integrity at temperatures exceeding 1000°C. It is classified A1 (non-combustible) under EN 13501-1 and is used in passive fire protection systems, fireproof coatings, and fire-rated partition boards.
Adding 3–8% sepiolite to cement or lime mortars dramatically improves workability, open time, and sag resistance. The fibrous particles create a thixotropic network that allows easy spreading while preventing slump on vertical surfaces.
Sepiolite is the material of choice for restoration of historic lime-based structures. It improves the working properties of traditional hydraulic lime mortars without introducing modern chemicals, maintaining breathability and compatibility with ancient stonework.
Sepiolite-filled concrete and gypsum products are 20–30% lighter than conventional equivalents at comparable strength. This reduces structural load, transportation costs, and installation labour while improving thermal and acoustic performance.
Unlike many synthetic insulation materials (XPS, EPS, spray foam), sepiolite contains no volatile organic compounds, no CFCs, no HFCs, and produces zero toxic emissions during fire. It is a 100% natural mineral that can be safely disposed of at end-of-life.
Construction-grade sepiolite requires specific fibre length and purity characteristics. We select ore from deposits that produce optimal fibre-to-particle ratios for building material applications.
The ore is carefully dried and processed to maintain the fibrous structure that provides reinforcement and thixotropy. Aggressive milling would destroy these properties.
We produce multiple particle grades: fine powder (<75µm) for coatings and mortars, medium grades (75–500µm) for board manufacture, and coarse fibre (1–3mm) for lightweight concrete.
Our technical lab tests each batch in actual mortar, plaster, and board formulations. We provide mix design guidance and can develop custom specifications for specific applications.
Available in 25kg bags or 1-tonne big bags. Our technical team provides on-site trials and mix design support for new product development.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Thermal Conductivity | 0.06 W/m·K (loose fill) |
| Fire Classification | A1 (non-combustible, EN 13501-1) |
| Fibre Length | 1–10 µm (mean) |
| Particle Sizes | <75µm / 75–500µm / 1–3mm |
| Dosage in Mortar | 3–8% by weight of binder |
| pH | 7.5–8.5 |
| Packaging | 25kg bags / 1t big bags |
Typical dosage is 3–8% by weight of binder (lime). Start at 5% for a standard improving mix. Higher ratios increase thixotropy and sag resistance but may reduce compressive strength slightly. Our technical team can optimise the mix for your specific application.
Yes. Sepiolite-based insulating renders and boards are used in external thermal insulation composite systems. The mineral's fire resistance (A1) is a significant advantage over EPS-based systems, particularly in high-rise buildings where fire regulations restrict combustible insulation.
Sepiolite has been successfully used as an asbestos replacement in many construction applications since the 1980s. Its fibrous structure provides similar reinforcement and thermal properties, but sepiolite fibres are non-carcinogenic and completely safe for human health.
Construction grade is optimised for fibre length preservation and low dust, providing reinforcement and workability in solid products. Drilling grade is optimised for maximum viscosity yield in liquid suspension. Different processing parameters produce different performance profiles.
Yes. Our technical team has extensive experience formulating sepiolite into construction products. We provide mix design guidance, laboratory testing, and can arrange pilot production trials. We work with manufacturers across Europe and the Middle East.
Our technical team provides samples, specifications, and formulation guidance tailored to your industry needs.
