Applications in Various Industries:
- Industrial Use: Used as a binding agent in foundry sands, drilling muds, and pelletizing iron ore.
Employed as a sealant in civil engineering (e.g., landfill liners, pond sealing). - Cosmetic and Personal Care: Found in facial masks, creams, and toothpaste as a thickener and absorbent.
- Agricultural Use: Used as a soil conditioner and in animal feed as a binder.
Where is Bentonite (Treated) Found?
- Natural Sources: Found in volcanic ash deposits as a clay mineral.
- Industrial Production: Mined from natural deposits and treated with chemicals (e.g., sodium carbonate) to enhance properties like swelling or absorption.
- Consumer Products: Found in cosmetics, drilling muds, and agricultural products.