Sipag Bisalta S.p.a. applications

Due to its ion exchange, flocculation, and sedimentation properties, bentonite is used in environmental protection for water clarification and sludge treatment. In water treatment systems, bentonite is a mineral type of clarifying agent, just like aluminium chlorohydrate, aluminium sulphate, ferrous sulphate, and iron chloride. However, since it is not soluble, it is the only agent capable of forming suspensions that remain stable over time. Further, bentonite “captures” metal pollutants, through an ion exchange process, in which sodium ions – which are superficially bonded to the clay – are replaced with polluted metallic cations.

Only accurately selected and purified bentonites can be employed in paper production, in order to ensure the best performance. There are different bentonites for different production processes. The main features of these bentonites are: high cationic exchange capacity, antipitch function to avoid lumps, and suspension capability. The beneficial effects of bentonite on production quality, printing, discharge waters, and, in general, from an economic point of view, should not be underestimated.

Bentonite is used to lend plasticity to the ceramic paste necessary and ensure good tenacity. Bentonites are selected depending on their use, for normal mixtures, or white paste, for engobes, or enamels.