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argilla

Argilla, commonly known as clay, is a fine‑grained natural earth material composed primarily of clay minerals. It originates from the weathering of silicate rocks and consists of platy, water‑saturated particles that become plastic when wet. The term derives from Latin argilla, from Greek argillos, meaning earthy material.

The principal clay minerals are phyllosilicates such as kaolinite, illite, and smectite (montmorillonite). These minerals form

Formation and occurrence: Clay forms by chemical weathering and sedimentation, and it accumulates in soils, river

Processing and uses: In crafts and industry, argilla is shaped when wet and fired to harden. Common

Environmental and safety aspects: Extraction and processing generate dust that can affect air quality and respiratory

layered
structures
of
alumina
and
silica
sheets
that
hold
water
between
layers.
The
chemistry
of
clays,
including
cation
exchange
capacity
and
interlayer
hydration,
influences
plasticity,
shrinkage
on
drying,
and
behavior
during
firing.
deltas,
floodplains,
and
marine
and
terrestrial
sediments.
Its
abundance
and
properties
vary
with
source
rocks,
degree
of
weathering,
and
diagenetic
history,
leading
to
a
wide
range
of
mineralogical
compositions
and
plasticities
in
different
regions.
products
include
pottery,
bricks,
roof
tiles,
and
sanitaryware.
Firing
temperature
classifies
clays
into
earthenware
(low
temperature),
stoneware
(mid
to
high
temperature),
and
porcelain
(high
temperature).
Clay
also
serves
as
a
component
in
cement,
and
as
an
adsorbent,
filler,
or
drilling
fluid
in
various
industrial
applications.
health.
Proper
controls,
dust
suppression,
and
protective
equipment
are
recommended.
Sustainable
use
includes
responsible
sourcing,
recycling
of
ceramic
waste,
and
minimizing
environmental
impacts
of
mining
and
firing
activities.