Organoclay anti-settling performance

The anti – settling performance of organoclay is a critical characteristic that makes it valuable in many fields, shaped by its production processes and quality – related factors.

One preparation method is to mix carefully selected sodium – based bentonite (with 20% – 30% moisture) directly with organic covering agents, blend them thoroughly in a dedicated heating mixer, and extrude to create water – containing organoclay. This organoclay can either be dried and into powder or dispersed directly in organic solvents to make gels or latex products.

Another process involves slurry dispersion, modification, and purification of crushed raw clay, followed by organic covering. In the covering stage, hydrophobic organic solvents (e.g., mineral oil) are used to extract the hydrophobic organoclay complex into the organic phase; after aqueous phase separation and residual water evaporation, bentonite pre – gel is formed.

Key factors affecting anti – settling performance include bentonite properties (type, purity, exchange capacity), organic covering agent details, and preparation parameters like reaction temperature. Bentonite with montmorillonite content over 90% – 95%, cation exchange capacity above 0.8 mmoL/g, and low interlayer charge is ideal for achieving strong anti – settling performance, while high – charge montmorillonite types like Cheto – type are less suitable.