Explanation

Also known as attapulgite, layered silicate mineral. Iron, nickel and other elements are often mixed in. Monoclinic system. A fibrous or block like aggregate. It appears as a thin column or needle under an electron microscope. White, light green, light brown. Earthy luster. The material is loose and porous. Easy to float on the water surface. The lobes are flat, capable of bending, and have toughness. When dry, it has water absorption and is also a product of shallow water deposition on the shore. It is often mixed with montmorillonite to form clay layer. Because there are large channels in the crystal structure, the cation exchange ability is strong. The exchange capacity is greater than zeolite, and the water absorption is strong. It can be used as bleaching agent, adsorbent, filler, filter aid, etc.

Classification