Kaoliniitti

Kaolinite is a phyllosilicate mineral, part of the group of industrial minerals with the chemical composition Al2Si2O5(OH)4. It is a layered silicate mineral, with one tetrahedral sheet linked through oxygen atoms to one octahedral sheet of alumina. Kaolinite is a soft, earthy, usually white mineral, often found in sedimentary rocks and soil. It is named after the Chinese village Gaoling, where it was first discovered.

Kaolinite is primarily used in the production of porcelain and fine china, as well as in the manufacture of paper, rubber, paint, and other products. Its fine particle size and low shrinkage during firing make it an ideal material for these applications. It is also used in the production of ceramics, where it acts as a filler and improves the plasticity of the clay body.

Kaolinite is formed through the weathering of feldspar and other aluminum-rich minerals in the presence of water. It is often found in association with other clay minerals such as illite and montmorillonite. The mineral is typically found in sedimentary environments, including river deposits, lake beds, and marine sediments.

Kaolinite has a low shrink-swell capacity, which makes it suitable for use in construction materials. It is also used in the production of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, where its fine particle size and purity are important. The mineral is also used in the production of catalysts, where its high surface area and low cost make it an attractive option.

Kaolinite is a common mineral found in many parts of the world, including the United States, China, France, and Brazil. It is typically mined using open-pit methods, and the ore is then processed to remove impurities and produce a high-purity product. The mineral is also found in significant quantities in the United States, particularly in the states of Georgia, North Carolina, and Alabama.