Kaolin KaolinCAS 1332-58-7
Kaolin (CAS 1332-58-7) is a natural clay rock consisting mainly of the mineral kaolinite. Finely dispersed white powder, virtually odorless. Widely used in the ceramic industry, paper production and cosmetology, possessing adsorbent properties.
1. Definition and general description
Kaolin (English Kaolin, German Kaolin) is a white clay, the main component of which is aluminum silicate - kaolinite (Al₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄). Its name comes from "Gaolin" - the area in China where this mineral was first found.
CAS: 1332-58-7
Synonyms: China Clay, White Clay, Kaolin Clay
2. Chemical Formula and Properties
Mineral formula of kaolinite: Al₂O₃ 2SiO₂ 2H₂O (often written as Al₂Si₂O₅(OH)₄)
Appearance: white or light cream powder, sometimes grayish
Smell: none
Density: ~2.6 g/cm³
Melting point: decomposes upon its own decomposition (dehydration) above 500–600 °C, forming metakaolin
Boiling point: not applicable to solid clay
Flash point: non-flammable
Solubility: insoluble in water, but may swell; resistant to most organic solvents
Decomposition: at temperatures above 1000 °C it turns into mullite and a glassy phase
Storage: in dry rooms, without excess moisture
Stability: inert in most chemical environments
3. Application and use
Ceramics and porcelain: kaolin is the basis of high-quality porcelain products and refractories.
Paper industry: as a filler, it gives paper a fine-grained structure and whiteness.
Cosmetics: it is used in masks, powders, sorbents due to its soft adsorbing effect.
Paints and coatings: as a filler it improves viscosity and thixotropy.
4. Potential impact
On health: inhalation of large amounts of dust can lead to respiratory problems, but kaolin is low-toxic.
On the environment: relatively harmless, but mining is associated with the development of quarry deposits.
5. Conclusion
Kaolin (CAS 1332-58-7) is a key source of high-purity aluminosilicate used in a wide range of industries. Its chemical stability and low toxicity make the mineral indispensable in ceramics, papermaking and cosmetology.
