Bentonite
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Premium Zeolite + Bentonite 1kg Powder (storage bag)
Bentonite – What exactly is it?
Bentonite is a clay mineral or, more precisely, a mixture of various minerals. This rock owes its name to the first place where it was found, namely Fort Benton in Montana, USA. One of its main components is montmorillonite. It was formed through the weathering of volcanic ash.
Its special properties
Bentonite is a highly unusual mineral mixture due to its properties. Its main component, montmorillonite, has a particularly high capacity for water absorption and swelling. Its surface area is significantly greater than that of conventional clay. This large, negatively charged surface area ensures that it is particularly effective at absorbing pollutants. A single gram of bentonite has an incredible surface area of 400 to 600 m².
When bentonite is stirred into a glass of water, it remains liquid whilst being stirred. As soon as you stop stirring, it immediately solidifies.
How bentonite works
Bentonite’s enormous surface area is negatively charged and therefore attracts positively charged ions like a magnet. Pollutants are bound in this way. This is why its range of applications is so wide. In the following section, we’ll tell you more about the various ways in which bentonite is used.
Possible applications
Thanks to the unique properties of bentonite, there are countless possible applications. We’ve summarised the most important ones for you.
In the construction industry
It plays a particularly significant role in the construction industry. Thanks to its properties, it can be used as a binding agent. It has also proven its worth as a sealing agent and is frequently used in this capacity. Due to its high water absorption capacity, it is often used in this context to control moisture levels.
In environmental applications
The special properties of bentonite are particularly beneficial to the environment. As it absorbs pollutants, it is mainly used in areas such as wastewater treatment.
It is also frequently used to line ponds and lakes, as it not only prevents seepage but also absorbs toxins in these environments.
In agriculture, the material is used to improve the soil.
In the food industry
Bentonite is also frequently encountered in the food industry. On the one hand, its ability to absorb large quantities of liquid is utilised. This helps to reduce excess liquids.
It is also used in wine and beer production. It acts as a clarifying agent, thereby improving the final product.
In personal care
Bentonite is particularly relevant in the field of personal care and cosmetics. As it has the ability to attract toxins almost magnetically, it is ideal for use in face masks or body wraps. It has a positive effect in combating blemishes. However, it can have a drying effect in this context, so proper skincare is important.
Where does bentonite come from?
Bentonite is formed through the weathering of volcanic ash. It is therefore mainly extracted in areas where there is volcanic activity. It was first discovered in Fort Benton in the US state of Montana. It is still mined in this area today, as well as in the states of Wyoming and Utah.
Other major producing countries of this volcanic clay include China, Italy, Greece, Canada, Russia and Mexico.
Bentonite is not approved for use as a foodstuff.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a mineral mixture formed from weathered volcanic ash. The name is derived from the original discovery site Fort Benton in the USA.
It is especially important in construction and environmental matters. Examples include tunnel construction, use as a sealing or binding agent. For the environment, the main advantage is that bentonite attracts pollutants.
It has the property of being particularly water-absorbent and swellable. In addition, it has a large surface area and attracts pollutants magnetically with it.
It can be excellently used as a facial mask or body wrap. Due to its detoxifying properties, it cleanses the skin and helps against impurities. After using bentonite on the skin, rich care is important.
Bentonite is not approved as a foodstuff. Ingestion can lead to constipation, among other things, due to its water absorption capacity.
It is mainly mined where there is volcanic activity. Important countries for mining are China, Italy, Greece, Canada, Russia, and Mexico. It is also still mined where bentonite was first discovered, namely in Montana.
