Bentonite clay. What it is?

Bentonite clay is a mineral of clayey origin, swelling when interacting with water. It is formed as a result of the decomposition of volcanic lava and ash. Depending on the prevalence of a chemical in the composition, its color may be yellow, brown, gray, green or blue.

Bentonite clay has the following characteristics:

• Plasticity - interacting with water, the clay turns into a mass capable of taking any shape under a slight pressure;
• Swelling - mixing with water, it increases in size;
• Sorption properties - absorption from the environment of particles, molecules, ions and their retention on their surface;
• Refractoriness - does not melt at very high temperatures;
• Sintering - turns into a stone-like body during firing.

Since ancient times, bentonite clays have been used in medicine and industry. As a rich source of various trace elements, they are an excellent environmentally friendly dietary supplements. Clay solution normalizes the work of the gastrointestinal tract, acid-base balance in the human body and animals. Normalize the work of the cardiovascular system. Has analgesic, anti-inflammatory, radioprotective properties.

Bentonite clay is found in many cosmetic products. It perfectly treats problem skin. The mask with it removes acne, skin irritation, removes inflammation from insect bites. Compress of this clay is recommended to be applied with burns.

In industry, this substance is never used in its pure form, it is mixed with other chemical components that enhance one or another property of clay. When bentonite enters the liquid medium, it turns into flakes and settles to the bottom, trapping fine particles. As a sorbent, bentonite clay is used for clarifying juices, wines and wines, as well as for softening water and purifying oils.

Its plastic properties help to obtain fine porcelain, construction, radio and electroceramics.

Currently, bentonite clay is widely used for drilling gas, oil and water wells. Its powder is used in the manufacture of drilling fluids. It does not contain polymer fillers, it is compatible with all components. This significantly reduces the cost of the solution and the time to drill the well.

Bentonite clay is also used in the construction of buildings, as well as underground structures. Due to its moisture-absorbing qualities, it is an ideal waterproofing. This same quality of clay is used when creating artificial reservoirs. Falling asleep on the bottom, builders significantly reduce the loss of water. Today, not only powder, but also waterproofing mats are made from bentonite clay.

Materials based on bentonite clays are often used in the metallurgical industry. Its high thermal stability and astringent properties are used here. Of the clay, molds and tools are made. It is used to form iron ore pellets.