Bentonite in Tile and Ceramic Manufacturing

Bentonite, due to its high plasticity and significant binding capability, is considered one of the important raw materials in the tile and ceramic industry. These properties enable bentonite to play an effective role in the forming stage of ceramic bodies by improving workability and facilitating the molding process.

When combined with other raw materials such as china clay (kaolin), feldspar, and silica, bentonite contributes to the homogeneity of the mixture and allows for the production of uniform, defect-free ceramic bodies. In addition, the high water absorption capacity and swelling behavior of bentonite increase the flexibility of the ceramic paste, which is particularly important in forming processes such as dry pressing and extrusion.

During the drying and firing stages, bentonite helps maintain the dimensional stability of green bodies by creating bonds between fine particles, thereby preventing deformation or cracking caused by shrinkage. This property enhances the final product quality and reduces production waste. Moreover, by improving the bonding between fine particles in the ceramic body, bentonite contributes to both green strength and fired strength.

Other advantages of using bentonite in this industry include reducing the consumption of chemical binders, improving the glazing process, and increasing the efficiency of production lines. For these reasons, bentonite is widely used in the production of wall tiles, floor tiles, refractory bricks, and even porcelain ware.