Libby Vermiculite Mine The Libby Vermiculite Mine, operated by W.R. Grace and Company, was the largest vermiculite mine in the world. The ore was heavily contaminated with tremolite asbestos, leading to one of the worst public health disasters in American history and an EPA Superfund emergency.
Last verified: 2026-03-09Mining began in the 1920s under the Zonolite Company and was acquired by W.R. Grace in 1963. For decades, the mine produced roughly 80% of the world's vermiculite supply. The EPA declared a public health emergency in 2009 — the first and only time it has used that authority under CERCLA. W.R. Grace filed for bankruptcy in 2001 due to asbestos liabilities.
Workers and residents were exposed to tremolite asbestos fibers released during mining, milling, and transport of vermiculite ore. Contaminated waste rock was used throughout the community for driveways, gardens, and a running track. Airborne fibers spread across the town, exposing families who never set foot in the mine.
The following job categories at Libby Vermiculite Mine had the highest risk of asbestos exposure:
More than 400 Libby residents have died from asbestos-related diseases, and nearly 3,000 have been sickened. Diseases include mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. The community's mortality rate from asbestos disease is 40 to 80 times the national average.
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 Libby Vermiculite Mine 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 Libby Vermiculite Mine between 1920s–1990 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.
The vermiculite ore at Libby was contaminated with tremolite asbestos, an amphibole fiber considered more dangerous than chrysotile. Tremolite fibers are highly durable and persist in lung tissue for decades.
Yes. Asbestos-contaminated vermiculite waste was spread throughout the community on roads, driveways, and playgrounds. Airborne fibers from the mine and processing facilities drifted over the town, causing widespread environmental exposure.
Yes. The W.R. Grace Asbestos Personal Injury Trust was established to compensate victims. Statutes of limitations vary, but many claims remain viable. An experienced mesothelioma attorney can evaluate your eligibility.
If you or a loved one worked at Libby Vermiculite Mine 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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