Nanoclay Powder (Purity : >99%, APS: 80-100nm)

Nanoclay Powder

The use of clays for healing purposes is widespread and is based on wellknown beneficial effects discovered after trials and errors or based on clinical–biological basis. This special issue is devoted to different aspects of clays and health. It is opened by a review on the beneficial and harmful effects of minerals in general and clay minerals. In the first section are reported the many applications of clay minerals in pharmacy and cosmetics indicating the broad variety of these materials as active principles, adsorbents, excipients, for drug delivery and in retard formulations: Use of clays as drug delivery systems: possibilities and limitations, uses of clay minerals in semisolid health care.

Clay minerals used in pharmaceutical formulations are: smectites, palygorskite, kaolinite and talc. These minerals can act as active principles or excipients. The properties for which they are used in pharmaceutical formulations are fundamentally: a high specific area and sorptive capacity, rheological properties, chemical inertness and low or null toxicity for the patient. Application of the clay is usually in the form of a powder, suspension, emulsion or gel. All these forms have expressed ion exchange, adsorption, emulsifying and electromagnetic properties.

Applications:

Textiles and Fibers

Textile Reinforcement:
Nanoclay powder is used to reinforce textiles, enhancing their strength, durability, and abrasion resistance. It can be incorporated into fabrics for sportswear, protective clothing, military uniforms, and industrial fabrics.

Water-Repellent Fabrics:
By adding nanoclay to textiles, it is possible to improve their hydrophobic properties, making the fabric water-resistant. This is especially useful in outdoor sportswear, raincoats, and workwear.

Antibacterial and Anti-odor Effects:
Nanoclay powder can also be used to impart antibacterial and anti-odor properties to textiles, making them more suitable for medical textiles (e.g., bandages, wound dressings) and sports apparel.

Electronics and Electrical Insulation

Improved Thermal Stability:
In electronic applications, nanoclay powder is used to improve the thermal conductivity of electrical components. The incorporation of nanoclay in insulating materials helps to manage heat better and prevent overheating in devices like smartphones, computers, and electronic circuits.

Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Shielding:
Nanoclay-modified materials can be used for EMI shielding in electronic devices. The high aspect ratio and unique properties of nanoclay allow it to act as an effective shield against electromagnetic interference, making it ideal for circuit boards, cables, and other electronic components.

Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

Skin Care Products:
Nanoclay powder is used in a variety of cosmetic and personal care products due to its adsorptive properties, which allow it to remove impurities and toxins from the skin. It is commonly found in products like face masks, scrubs, moisturizers, and shampoos.

Oil Absorption:
Due to its high surface area, nanoclay can be used in oil-absorbing formulations, making it a key ingredient in products designed for oily skin or for absorbing excess oils in cosmetics such as foundations and cosmetic powders.

Paints, Inks, and Adhesives

Improved Viscosity Control:
Nanoclay powder is used to improve the viscosity of inks and paints, especially in products that require consistent flow properties and high-quality finishes. It helps in achieving smooth and even coating applications.

Enhanced Adhesive Properties:
Nanoclay is added to adhesives to enhance their bonding strength, durability, and stability under different environmental conditions. This is particularly useful in construction, automotive, and electronics industries.