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Activated Bleaching Earth

Updated: 2026-08-28

Overview

Precipitated bleaching clay is an acid-activated aluminum silicate derived from natural bentonite or montmorillonite clays. Through controlled sulfuric or hydrochloric acid treatment followed by washing and drying, its surface area and adsorption capacity are significantly enhanced compared to raw clay. This material plays a critical role in industrial purification processes, particularly in the food and energy sectors. Its development in the early 20th century revolutionized oil refining by providing an efficient, reusable alternative to animal charcoal for decolorization.

Physical and Chemical Properties

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The material exhibits a microporous structure with a typical surface area of 150-300 m²/g after activation. Its layered lattice structure contains exchangeable cations that contribute to selective adsorption of pigments, phospholipids, and oxidation products. Key metrics include acid value (pH 2.5-4.5 in 10% slurry), bulk density (0.7-0.9 g/cm³), and particle size distribution (90% <75μm). The activation process creates both Brønsted and Lewis acid sites that facilitate chemical adsorption alongside physical filtration mechanisms.

商家经验
沸石材料优选指南专业供应商解析与采购决策参考

Main Applications

In edible oil refining, bleaching clay removes chlorophyll, carotenoids, and oxidation products during the neutralization process. Typical dosage ranges from 0.3%-2% of oil volume depending on impurity levels. The petroleum industry utilizes it for lubricant and paraffin wax purification. Emerging applications include biodiesel post-treatment and recycling of used cooking oils. In these processes, the clay not only decolorizes but also reduces soap content and trace metals. Some pharmaceutical manufacturers employ medical-grade variants for antibiotic purification.

Safety and Storage

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As an acid-activated material, proper handling requires nitrile gloves, dust masks, and eye protection to prevent irritation. Bulk storage silos should incorporate humidity control (<60% RH) to maintain activity, as moisture reduces adsorption capacity. Spent clay contains absorbed oils and may undergo spontaneous combustion if stored improperly. Disposal regulations vary by jurisdiction, with some regions permitting land application after pH neutralization while others classify it as special waste requiring thermal regeneration.

商家经验
2026中国铁粉行业发展报告——从基础材料到高附加值应用的产业升级

B2B Procurement Guide

Industrial buyers should evaluate suppliers based on consistent activation levels (measured by montmorillonite content ≥85%), low residual acid (≤0.3% free H2SO4), and batch-to-batch uniformity. Request laboratory-scale bleaching tests with your specific feedstock. Logistics considerations include bulk bag vs. palletized options - 25kg bags are common for trial orders while 1-ton super sacks reduce handling costs for regular shipments. Leading manufacturers are concentrated in China, India, and the US, with production facilities typically located near raw material sources.

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