Sepiolite
Meerschaum
- CAS
- 63800-37-3
- EC
- 264-465-3
- Sectors
- Building & Construction, Water & Wastewater Treatment, Agriculture
Sepiolite (CAS 63800-37-3) is a hydrated magnesium silicate clay mineral that appears as a fibrous white, light brown or light green powder, is highly absorbent, and is used in wastewater treatment, agriculture as a soil conditioner, and construction materials for insulation. 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.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | H2O.1/6HO.1/6Mg.1/6O5Si2 |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 179.49 g/mol |
| Appearance | fibrous white, light brown or light green solid |
| Form | powder |
| Grades available | Technical Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Sepiolite
Applications
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.
Safety & Risks
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.
Packaging
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.