Bentonite is a type of clay that has been used for various purposes for thousands of years. It is formed from volcanic ash and is composed of various minerals, including aluminum silicate. Bentonite has many uses and applications, including:
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Foundry-sand bond: Bentonite is widely used as a foundry-sand bond in iron and steel foundries. Sodium bentonite is most commonly used for large castings that use dry molds, while calcium bentonite is more commonly used for smaller castings that use "green" or wet molds.
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Binding agent: Bentonite is used as a binding agent in the manufacture of iron ore pellets as used in the steelmaking industry.
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Ceramics: Bentonite is used in small percentages as an ingredient in commercial and homemade clay bodies and ceramic glazes. It greatly increases the plasticity of clay bodies and decreases settling in glazes, making both easier to work with for most applications.
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Purification: Bentonites are used for decolorizing various mineral, vegetable, and animal oils. They are also used for clarifying wine, liquor, cider, beer, mead, and vinegar. Bentonite is used as an inert carrier for pesticides, fertilizers, and fire retardants. It helps ensure that the active agent is uniformly dispersed and that pesticides and fertilizers are retained on the plants.
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Filler: Bentonite is used as a filler in a wide variety of products, including adhesives, cosmetics, paint, rubber, and soaps. It also acts as a stabilizer and extender in these products.
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Sealant: Bentonite is used as a sealant in the construction of ponds, tanks, and artificial lakes. It is also used as a liner for underground cellars or basements.
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Health and beauty: Bentonite clay works like a sponge on the skin, absorbing dirt and oil, like sebum. It is used in many skin care products, such as facial cleansing masks, shampoos, toothpaste, and some soaps. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may help the skin heal. Bentonite clay is also used as a natural remedy for digestive issues, such as occasional or ongoing diarrhea, and constipation from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) .
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Other uses: Bentonite is used as an effective pond sealant, an anti-odor agent for cat litter, a cleansing agent in wastewater treatment, a clumping agent for metal casting green sand, and an environmentally friendly drilling mud additive.
