关于 Bentonite

Bentonite is a naturally occurring clay composed predominantly of montmorillonite, a type of phyllosilicate mineral. Chemically, it consists of hydrated aluminum silicate with a general formula approximated as (Na,Ca)₀.₃(Al,Mg)₂Si₄O₁₀(OH)₂·nH₂O. It is usually encountered as a fine, absorbent powder or granular form and can be processed into slurries or gels when dispersed in water. Bentonite is formed from volcanic ash altered by hydrothermal activity and weathering over geological timescales; major deposits are located in the United States (e.g. Wyoming), Turkey, Greece, and India. Its unique swelling and adsorptive properties make it widely used across industries such as drilling fluid additives in oil and gas, foundry sand binders, cat litter, sealing ponds and landfills, civil engineering, and even food‑grade or pharmaceutical formulations.

Bentonite Uses

Drilling Fluid Additive

Bentonite is extensively used as a viscosifier and fluid-loss control agent in drilling mud for oil and gas and geothermal wells. When hydrated, it swells and forms a gel-like suspension that stabilises boreholes, suspends drill cuttings, and lubricates drill bits. Its thixotropic and thermal stability help maintain fluid properties under downhole conditions, making it essential to many drilling programs.

Foundry and Casting Binder

In foundry operations, bentonite is mixed with sand to form moulds and cores for metal casting. It enhances the mould’s strength and collapsibility by binding sand grains together, reducing casting defects and improving surface finish. Both sodium‑based and calcium‑based bentonites are chosen depending on moulding requirements and metal types.

Environmental Sealing & Civil Engineering

Because of its low hydraulic conductivity when hydrated, bentonite is ideal for sealing and lining in environmental applications. It’s used in landfill liners, slurry walls, pond and canal linings, and geotechnical barrier systems. Its ability to form impermeable seals helps contain contaminants and control water migration.

Animal Feed & Pet Products

Food‑grade or pharmaceutical grade bentonite is used as a mycotoxin binder in animal feed, improving gut health in livestock. In pet products, bentonite is the core ingredient in many clumping cat litter brands—its moisture absorption and agglomeration characteristics help form firm clumps for easy removal of waste.

Cosmetic, Pharmaceutical & Industrial Formulations

In cosmetics, bentonite is valued for its adsorptive and rheological properties and is found in face masks, creams, and shampoos to help cleanse and thicken. In industrial formulations, it serves as a suspending agent, carrier, and thickener in paints, adhesives, drilling fluids, and even wine and juice clarification.

Bentonite Supplier Australia, USA & More!

Redox are trusted, authorised suppliers of bentonite. With distribution centres worldwide, we can supply to Australia, USA, UK, NZ, Europe, Asia and more. Get in touch with our expert team, who can help you order the right product, form and amount for your needs.