- Chemical composition: Kaolin is composed mainly of the mineral kaolinite, which is a hydrous aluminum silicate with the chemical formula Al2Si2O5(OH)4.
- Formation: Kaolin forms through the weathering and decomposition of feldspar-rich rocks like granite and gneiss. The chemical and physical breakdown of these rocks leaves behind kaolin deposits.
- Uses: Kaolin has many industrial and commercial applications. It is widely used in the manufacture of paper, paint, rubber, plastics, wire insulation and more. As a pigment, it provides whiteness and opacity. In ceramics and pottery, kaolin is important for its high fire resistance.
- Physical properties: Kaolin appears as a fine white powder or clay. It is fairly soft with a low melting point. When heated, it loss water molecules but does not vitrify like other clays. This gives it unique thermal qualities.
Kaolin
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Kaolin is a soft, white, earthy mineral that is an essential industrial mineral. It is composed mainly of the clay mineral kaolinite and forms as a product of the chemical weathering of feldspar-containing rocks like granite and gneiss. When mined, kaolin appears as a fine, white powder that is soft and has a low melting point. It is widely used in industrial processes due to its unique properties. As a filler, kaolin increases the whiteness and opacity of paper, paints, plastics and other materials. In ceramics and pottery applications, kaolin is very important because it has excellent thermal properties – it does not vitrify at high temperatures like other clays but will still add strength and thermal resistance to fired ceramics.