Kaolin, or China clay, is nearly white in color. It is distinguished from other industrial clays based on its fine particle size and pure coloring. Its ability to disperse in water make it an ideal pigment.
The primary constituent in kaolin is the mineral kaolinite, a hydrous aluminum silicate formed by the decomposition of minerals such as feldspar.
The name kaolin derives from the Chinese and means high ridge. High ridge is a reference to the hill in south-eastern China where the clay was
originally discovered and used. In the 7th and 8th centuries, the Chinese were the first to use kaolin to make porcelain. It was not until centuries later that other areas of the world could duplicate the process.
The white color of the mineral can either be naturally occurring, or can result after processing which removes minerals and other color-bearing compounds. The small particle size of the mineral contributes to its white color by scattering light.
What is used for ?.
Paper Industry:
The primary use of kaolin is in the paper industry. It serves as a paper coating which improves appearance by contributing to brightness, smoothness and gloss. It also improves printability. Additionally, it is used by the paper industry as a filler reducing cost and the use of tree-based resources.
China, Porcelain and Tableware:
Many people are under the mistaken impression that the only use for kaolin is in the manufacture of china. This is not true, and its use by the paper industry far exceeds its other uses. However, kaolin still serves as a valuable component in china and other tablewares. Its color, gloss and hardness are ideal characteristics for such products.
Other Uses:
Kaolin has a variety of other uses in products including paint, rubber, cable insulation, specialty films and fertilizers. New uses are being discovered frequently, and ensure that the mineral will remain in demand for a long time.
Kao0lin is produced from our mines in Eltieh area through underground mines and open cast area, the production capacity is about 72000 tons/year.
