Attapulgite

Attapulgite (palygorskite) is a complex magnesium aluminium silicate clay mineral with an open-channel structure forming elongate crystals. Its industrial value derives from very high surface area, porosity, and exceptional liquid absorption capacity.

Chemical Composition

Formula: (Mg,Al)₂Si₄O₁₀(OH)·4H₂O with variations in Mg, Al, and Fe content.

Component	Typical %
SiO2	53.03
Al2O3	11.10
Fe2O3	3.80
CaO	1.10
MgO	2.10
K2O	0.80

Physical Properties

pH 9 | Moisture 2.50% | Water holding capacity 70.00%

Applications

Drilling mud additive, fertilizer and pesticide carrier, animal feed binder, pharmaceutical excipient, paint thickener, oil and grease absorbent, cat litter, and industrial wastewater treatment. Products: raw attapulgite, powder, and granules.