Organoclay greases for high pressure

The loss on ignition (LOI) is a key parameter for assessing the degree of organic modification in organic bentonite.

The LOI range of 34%-36% at 1000°C is of significant importance. This weight loss primarily results from the high-temperature decomposition of organic modifiers (such as quaternary ammonium salts).

A stable LOI indicates uniform grafting of organic groups (deviation ≤2%), ensuring consistent performance across batches.

A loss on ignition below 34% indicates insufficient organic modification, leading to reduced compatibility with synthetic oils and potential phase separation; a value above 36% may indicate residual unreacted free modifiers, resulting in increased high-temperature volatilization losses in lubricants.

During production, real-time monitoring of loss on ignition is conducted using infrared spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis.

A certain company has reduced batch performance fluctuations from ±10% to ±3% through this method, providing stable raw material supply for downstream customers.