ASARCO Vermiculite Plant The ASARCO vermiculite processing plant in northeast Minneapolis expanded raw vermiculite ore shipped from the contaminated Libby, Montana mine. Workers and surrounding community members were exposed to tremolite asbestos released during processing operations.
Last verified: 2026-03-09The Minneapolis plant was one of several facilities across the country that processed Libby vermiculite. Operating from the late 1930s through 1989, it expanded raw ore in high-temperature furnaces to produce lightweight insulation and garden products. The EPA identified the site during its nationwide investigation of Libby vermiculite processing locations and conducted soil and air testing in the surrounding neighborhood.
Raw vermiculite ore from Libby was heated in expansion furnaces, releasing trapped tremolite asbestos fibers into the plant and surrounding air. Workers handled contaminated materials throughout the production process without adequate respiratory protection. Neighborhood contamination occurred through airborne fiber drift and waste disposal practices.
The following job categories at ASARCO Vermiculite Plant had the highest risk of asbestos exposure:
Plant workers developed mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer at rates significantly above the general population. Community health studies found elevated asbestos-related disease in residents living near the facility. The EPA included this site in its public health response to Libby contamination.
Health information is based on established medical research on asbestos exposure. Asbestos is classified as a known human carcinogen by the National Cancer Institute, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Consult a physician for medical advice specific to your situation.
Workers exposed to asbestos at ASARCO Vermiculite Plant may be entitled to compensation through asbestos trust funds, personal injury lawsuits, or veterans benefits. Mesothelioma patients and their families have recovered billions in compensation from companies that manufactured or used asbestos products.
Find Out If You QualifyWorkers who were employed at ASARCO Vermiculite Plant between 1940s–1980s may have been exposed to asbestos-containing materials. If you've been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may have legal options including trust fund claims and lawsuits.
If you were exposed to asbestos at ASARCO Vermiculite Plant and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, these specialized treatment centers in Minnesota may be able to help.
The plant was located in northeast Minneapolis on University Avenue NE. The EPA has tested the surrounding neighborhood for asbestos contamination as part of the Libby Asbestos Superfund investigation.
The Minneapolis plant received raw vermiculite ore from the Libby mine and processed it into insulation and other products. The Libby ore was contaminated with tremolite asbestos, which was released during processing.
Yes. Workers exposed to Libby vermiculite at the Minneapolis plant may file claims against the W.R. Grace Asbestos Trust and potentially other parties. An experienced mesothelioma attorney can help identify all available sources of compensation.
If you or a loved one worked at ASARCO Vermiculite Plant and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis, our attorneys can help you explore your legal options. There is no cost, no pressure, and no obligation.
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