Sepiolite

ALTERNATIVE NAMES
Meerschaum
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS
CAS
63800-37-3
EC
264-465-3
Food Code

Sepiolite is a hydrated magnesium silicate clay mineral with the formula Mg4Si6O15(OH)2·6H2O, appearing as a white or light gray fibrous powder. It has a density of about 2.0-2.3 g/cm³, high porosity (up to 200-300 m²/g surface area), and is insoluble in water but highly absorbent. Non-hygroscopic, it decomposes at high temperatures without melting and is sourced from natural deposits, often used in purified forms for industrial applications.

Sepiolite

Utilized as an absorbent in cat litter, oil spill cleanup, and wastewater treatment; in cosmetics for rheology control, paints as a thickener, and agriculture for soil conditioning; also in pharmaceuticals as a carrier and in construction materials for insulation.

May cause eye, skin, and respiratory irritation from dust; avoid inhalation to prevent silicosis risk. Non-flammable but use dry chemical for fires; incompatible with strong acids. Classified as non-hazardous but use PPE and ventilation in handling.

Typically in 25kg multi-wall paper bags or big bags with liners; store in dry, ventilated areas; rinse containers for recycling or dispose in sanitary landfills per regulations.

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