PROCESS FOR PRODUCING BENTONITE CLAYS EXHIBITING ENHANCED SOLUTION VISCOSITY PROPERTIES

摘要

2091780 9205123 PCTABS00011 A process for upgrading a crude bentonite ore such that it can be used advantageously to prepare unusually high aqueous solution viscosities. This sequence comprises initially subjecting the crude ore to a working or shearing stage, followed by a drying step to about a 5 % moisture level. Na2CO3 is then dry-blended with the material, and the sequence is completed by subjecting the mix to a pulverizing step.