Southern Clay Products, Inc.

David J Hanlon

William R Menking

Milburn I Knudson, Jr

Paul W Carroll

Patricia M Bauer

Patricia M Lewis

Nelda J Reed

Theodore R Broadus

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A smectite clay is provided as an elevated solids aqueous slurry e.g. up to 50% solids, which is composed of the smectite clay slurried or dispersed in water containing an effective concentration of a monovalent salt. When such a salt is present in the clay slurry, the clay does not swell appreciably, is essentially inactive, and the slurry can be shipped and stored without creating a gelling problem. When this slurry is diluted with fresh water at the point of application to make it of the desired solids content for use, the smectite clay is activated and exhibits the desired properties, such as viscosity, retention, etc.

Method for preparing high solids bentonite slurries

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. Na.sub.2 CO.sub.3 is then dry-blended with the material, and the sequence is completed by subjecting the mix to a pulverizing step.

Process for producing bentonite clays exhibiting enhanced solution

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Gonzales, TX, United States of America

David J Hanlon