Bentonite Powder

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Bentonite powder is a naturally occurring absorbent clay primarily composed of montmorillonite, a type of smectite clay mineral. It exhibits excellent swelling and water absorption properties, making it highly versatile in industrial and commercial applications. Bentonite forms a gel-like substance when mixed with water, which imparts viscosity and plasticity. It is used extensively for its binding, sealing, and adsorptive characteristics. Its fine powder form allows for easy incorporation in various processes including drilling, foundry, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.

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Categories: Binders/Resins, Bleaching Agents, pH Adjusters, Thickeners Tags: Animal Feed Additive, Construction waterproofing, Cosmetics and skincare, Foundry sand binder, Natural clay, Pharmaceutical excipient

Description

Table of Contents

Bentonite Powder

Primary Uses

Drilling Industry:

Used as a drilling mud additive to lubricate and cool drill bits, remove cuttings, and stabilize boreholes. The swelling nature helps prevent fluid loss.

Foundry:

Acts as a binder in mold and core sands to improve mold strength and surface finish during metal casting.

Cosmetics & Personal Care:

Used as a thickener, absorbent, and cleansing agent in facial masks, powders, and creams for skin detoxification.

Pharmaceuticals:

Used as an excipient, adsorbent, and anti-caking agent in medicinal formulations. Also applied in antidiarrheal products for its absorbent properties.

Agriculture:

Improves soil water retention, controls erosion, and acts as a carrier for pesticides and fertilizers.

Pet Care:

Common ingredient in cat litter due to its clumping and odor-absorbing abilities.

Secondary Uses

Environmental:

Used in waste water treatment as a flocculant and for heavy metal adsorption.

Construction:

Utilized as a waterproofing agent in sealing ponds, landfills, and foundations.

Food Industry:

Used as a clarifying agent in wine, juice, and vinegar production.

Industrial Applications:

Serves as a binder in pharmaceuticals, paints, adhesives, and ceramics manufacturing.

Animal Feed:

Acts as an anti-caking agent and mycotoxin binder in livestock feed.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Sodium calcium aluminum magnesium silicate hydrate (varies by type)
Common/Trade Name: Bentonite Powder
CAS Number: 1302-78-9
HS Code: 2508.10.00
Molecular Formula: (Na,Ca)₀.₃(Al,Mg)₂Si₄O₁₀(OH)₂·nH₂O (varies)
Synonyms: Montmorillonite clay, swelling clay, sodium bentonite, calcium bentonite

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Fine powder
Color & Odor: Off-white to pale gray, odorless
Particle Size: Typically <75 microns
Specific Gravity: 2.5–2.8
Swelling Capacity: High, can swell several times its dry volume in water
Solubility: Insoluble in water, disperses to form colloidal suspension
pH (1% suspension): 8–10 (alkaline)
Thermal Stability: Stable up to ~800°C before decomposition

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous
NFPA Ratings: Health 1, Flammability 0, Reactivity 0
Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL = 15 mg/m³ (total dust), ACGIH TLV = 10 mg/m³ (respirable dust)
Reactivity: Chemically inert under normal conditions
Incompatibilities: Strong acids and alkalis can alter clay structure

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in dry, well-ventilated areas to avoid moisture absorption and caking
Container Type: Sealed bags or drums, moisture-proof packaging preferred
Shelf Life: Indefinite if kept dry and uncontaminated
Special Handling: Minimize dust generation; use dust masks in dusty environments

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Regulatory Status: Generally recognized as safe for many uses (e.g., FDA approved for food contact)
Transportation: Non-hazardous material
Waste Disposal: Dispose in accordance with local environmental regulations

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic life; biodegradable
Persistence: Naturally occurring mineral, stable in environment
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic
Biodegradability: Inorganic mineral, not biodegradable but environmentally benign

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE: Use gloves, dust masks or respirators, and safety goggles when handling powder to prevent inhalation and eye contact.
Dust Control: Employ local exhaust ventilation and dust suppression techniques.
Hygiene: Avoid inhalation of dust; wash hands after use; no eating or smoking in work areas.
Storage: Keep dry to avoid clumping and microbial growth.

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms develop.
Skin Contact: Wash skin thoroughly with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation occurs.
Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water; seek medical advice if large quantities ingested.

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Non-flammable; dust may present minor explosion hazard in high concentrations.
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or CO₂ as appropriate for surrounding fire.
Special Precautions: Avoid creating dust clouds; wear protective equipment to prevent inhalation.