Bentonite, Montmorillonite, Volclay, 1302-78-9

Bentonite, Montmorillonite, Volclay, 1302-78-9

1. Physical and Chemical Properties

Bentonite is a natural clay mineral primarily composed of montmorillonite, an aluminum silicate. It has high water absorption capacity, allowing it to swell and form a gel-like substance when hydrated.

• Chemical Formula: Al₂O₃·4(SiO₂)·H₂O

• Molecular Weight: 360.31 g/mol

• Density: 2–3 g/cm³

• Solubility: Insoluble in water but forms a colloidal solution when mixed with water

• Color: Varies from light yellow, green, cream, pink, gray to black.

2. Applications

Bentonite is widely used across multiple industries due to its adsorption, swelling, and binding properties:

• Industrial Uses: Found in oil refining, paint, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.

• Water Treatment: Used for removing contaminants in wastewater treatment.

• Agriculture: Acts as a soil conditioner, improving nutrient absorption for plants.

• Food Industry: Used as a clarifying agent in wine and fruit juice production.

• Cosmetics & Pharmaceuticals: Functions as a stabilizer and emulsifier in skincare products.

3. Other Names

Bentonite is also known as:

• Montmorillonite

• Fuller's Earth

• Volclay

• Bentonite Magma

• Hi-Jel, Magbond, Tixoton