How do I identify the grainy, black insulation in my attic?

Question

How do I identify the grainy, black insulation in my attic?

Answer 1

Vermiculite

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vermiculite

Not a bad loose fill insulation material, but try not to breath it in.  If you're planning to remove it, have it checked for asbestos first.

Answer 2

It is probally ground up newspaper.