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CLAYTONE-APA is an organoclay rheological additive engineered to provide controlled thixotropy, sag resistance, and pigment-suspension stability in solventborne coatings, adhesives, sealants, greases, inks, and high-polarity systems.
Produced by organically modifying purified smectite bentonite, CLAYTONE-APA forms a three-dimensional gel network upon dispersion—delivering efficient low-shear viscosity build, excellent anti-settling performance, and reproducible rheology without compromising flow and leveling.
CLAYTONE-APA's broad compatibility, ease of activation, and ability to stabilize heavy pigments and fillers make it a versatile rheology modifier widely used in industrial coatings, personal-care emulsions, construction chemicals, lubricants, and solventborne specialty formulations.
CAS Number: 1302-78-9
EC Number: 215-108-5
Synonyms: Organoclay rheological additive, Organophilic bentonite, Organomodified smectite, Modified montmorillonite clay, Quaternary ammonium montmorillonite, Alkyl ammonium clay thickener, Rheology-control organoclay, Thixotropic clay additive, Solvent-borne gel thickener, Non-aqueous rheology modifier, Organophilic hectorite analog, Smectite-based gelling agent, Organo-bentonite dispersant, Clay-based thixotrope, Organic-treated layered silicate, Organophilic phyllosilicate, Modified layered aluminosilicate, Rheology-enhancing organoclay, Gel network builder, Solvent-borne viscosity modifier, Anti-settling clay additive, Sag-resistance clay modifier, Yield-value builder, Organoclay thickener for coatings, Oil-phase gel activator, Polar-activated organoclay, Thixotropic structural clay, Activated smectite gel-former, Solventborne dispersion stabilizer, Modified clay platelet additive, Organophilic viscosity builder, Anti-sag organoclay, Pigment suspension stabilizer, Ink and coating thickener, Organoclay flow-control agent, Alkylammonium-treated bentonite, Modified smectite rheology agent, High-efficiency clay gellant, Organoclay for solvent systems, Oil-based thixotropic agent, Polar accelerator-activated clay, Structural network-forming clay, Rheological clay enhancer, Organophilic nanoclay, Surface-modified clay additive, Organoclay suspension agent, Clay-based viscosity enhancer, Solventborne gel-strength additive, Controlled-thixotropy clay modifier, High-surface-area organoclay rheology additive
CLAYTONE-APA is an organoclay rheological additive specifically engineered for use in solventborne coating, adhesive, sealant, grease, and ink systems where controlled thixotropy, sag resistance, and pigment suspension stability are critical.
Produced by the chemical modification of highly purified smectite bentonite with a proprietary ammonium-based organic treatment, CLAYTONE-APA develops a three-dimensional gel network upon dispersion in organic media, enabling efficient viscosity build at low-shear rates without compromising flow and leveling at high shear.
In its commercial form, CLAYTONE-APA appears as a fine, free-flowing, light-colored powder with high surface area and strong platelet–platelet interaction capability.
When properly activated using high-shear dispersers and suitable polar activators, the layered silicate structure exfoliates into individual platelets and tactoids that dramatically increase yield value, anti-settling performance, and storage stability across a wide range of resin systems including alkyds, polyesters, epoxies, urethane-modified systems, and various solventborne acrylics.
CLAYTONE-APA is optimized for aromatic, aliphatic, ester, ketone, and mixed-solvent formulations, providing excellent rheological control with minimal impact on gloss, transparency, and film continuity.
CLAYTONE-APA's thixotropic gel network enhances vertical film build, prevents sagging on high-solids or heavy-pigmented systems, and improves uniformity in pigmented coatings, corrosion-protective primers, and industrial maintenance paints.
The additive exhibits broad compatibility with polymeric dispersants, wetting agents, and other rheology modifiers, enabling formulators to fine-tune flow curves, adjust shear-thinning behavior, and maintain long-term suspension of pigments, fillers, and anticorrosive agents.
CLAYTONE-APA's thermal stability, low dusting behavior, and ease of incorporation make it suitable for high-speed manufacturing lines and demanding solventborne systems requiring predictable rheology over long storage periods.
CLAYTONE-APA is widely used in coatings, sealants, construction chemicals, lubricating greases, printing inks, and specialty industrial formulations where performance benefits include enhanced sag control, improved pigment settling resistance, better body and structure, and consistent application properties under varying shear conditions.
CLAYTONE-APA's balance of activation efficiency, rheological strength, and compatibility across diverse organic systems makes CLAYTONE-APA a reliable and versatile organoclay for modern solventborne formulation engineering.
CLAYTONE rheology additives from BYK are organically modified, natural phyllosilicates for universal usage in solvent-borne and in solvent-free systems.
They provide a thixtropic flow behavior and significantly improve the anti-settling properties, the storage stability, and the sag resistance.
CLAYTONE additives are mainly effective in the low and mid shear range.There are different types available to match the polarity of systems to which they are added.
CLAYTONE rheology additives can be used in all solvent-borne and solvent-free coatings, construction formulations, adhesives and sealants, printing inks, thermosets, lubricants, and household, institutional, and industrial cleaners.
CLAYTONE-APA is an organically modified bentonite (Organoclay) for use in cosmetic and personal care products to increase viscosity, provide thixotropic flow behavior, and suspend pigments and particles in medium to high polar solvents.
CLAYTONE-APA is designed to swell and disperse easily (e.g.in solvents like ethyl or butyl acetate).
CLAYTONE-APA may be an auxiliary emulsifier in water-in-oil emulsion systems.
CLAYTONE-APA is vegan.
CLAYTONE-APA is a powdered rheology additive based on organically modified bentonite (organophilic phyllosilicate) for use in personal care applications.
CLAYTONE-APA swells and disperses easily and may be used to stabilize water-in-oil emulsion systems.
CLAYTONE-APA increases viscosity, provides thixotropic flow behavior, suspends pigments and particles.
CLAYTONE-APA is used in creams, lotions, sunscreen, antiperspirants, deodorants, liquid makeup, lipsticks, cream eye shadows and nail polishes.
CLAYTONE-APA is compatible with surfactants & emulsifiers.
CLAYTONE-APA is vegan certified and complies with REACH, EINECS, TSCA, DSL, PICCS, IECSC, ENCS, NZIoC and ECSI.
CLAYTONE-APA is free of VOC, biocides, preservatives, CMR, dimethyl fumarate, formaldehyde, formaldehyde releaser, PAH, phthalates, APEO and PFAS.
CLAYTONE-APA has a shelf life of 60 months.
CLAYTONE-APA is a rheological additive designed to efficiently function in hard to adjust, high polarity systems without energy intensive processing.
As a modified montmorillonite, CLAYTONE-APA generates thixotropic properties to provide flow control and anti-setting in solvent based formulations.
CLAYTONE-APA reliably delivers reproducible rheology without the need for activators, making it suitable for applications requiring controlled viscosity and sag resistance.
As a versatile thickening agent, CLAYTONE-APA allows for optimized performance at typical use levels of 0.2% to 2% by weight.
CLAYTONE-APA is a modified montmorillonite.
CLAYTONE-APA prevents hard settling of pigments and fillers.
CLAYTONE-APA is used in high performance coatings and inks.
CLAYTONE-APA is a modified montmorillonite designed to be used in aromatic and polar systems.
CLAYTONE-APA will function very efficiently in hard to adjust, high polarity systems without the need for energy intensive medial mills.
CLAYTONE-APA functions as a thixotropic rheology modifier generating properties such as flow control and anti-setting.
CLAYTONE-APA provides reliable and reproducible rheological properties in solvent based paints, stains, enamels, and primers, as well as other applications.
CLAYTONE-APA does not require the use of a polar activator to achieve full efficiency.
Recommended for solvent-based paints and stains as well as caulks and sealants.
CLAYTONE-APA is a rheology additive in powder form based on an organophilic phyllosilicate, designed for polar to medium-polar systems to generate thixotropic flow behavior.
CLAYTONE-APA is a high-efficiency organophilic bentonite rheological additive developed through the controlled modification of purified smectite clay with quaternary ammonium compounds, transforming the naturally hydrophilic layered silicate structure into a hydrophobic, organophilic material capable of producing profound rheological effects in non-aqueous formulations.
Owing to its unique surface chemistry, CLAYTONE-APA enables the formation of stable, three-dimensional gel networks within a wide spectrum of organic solvent systems, giving formulators precise control over viscosity, thixotropy, yield value, and pigment suspension behavior.
In its commercial form, CLAYTONE-APA appears as a finely milled, light-colored powder with low moisture content, high cation exchange efficiency, and strong internal platelet cohesion.
Each particle consists of multi-layered smectite platelets that have been organically intercalated and surface-treated to enhance compatibility with solventborne resins.
This structural modification significantly increases the interlayer spacing, enabling improved solvent penetration during activation and facilitating the exfoliation of platelets during high-shear dispersion.
The result is the rapid development of a rheologically active network that simultaneously improves low-shear viscosity, prevents pigment sedimentation, and provides excellent anti-sag performance on vertical substrates.
When dispersed under adequate shear and activated with suitable polar additives, the organoclay tactoids of CLAYTONE-APA delaminate, releasing high-aspect-ratio platelets that interact through van der Waals forces, hydrogen bonding, and physical entanglement.
These interactions contribute to a stable gel-like microstructure which supports heavy fillers, corrosion inhibitors, and high-density pigments while still allowing desirable shear-thinning behavior.
Under high shear—such as during brush, roller, spray, or pump application—the network temporarily breaks down, enabling smooth flow and easy application.
Once shear is removed, the structure rebuilds rapidly, resulting in consistent film build, reduced sagging, and improved leveling.
CLAYTONE-APA is engineered to perform across a diverse range of solventborne resin systems including medium- to long-oil alkyds, urethane-modified binders, polyester resins, epoxy-ester systems, and solventborne acrylics.
CLAYTONE-APA's compatibility extends to formulations rich in aromatic hydrocarbons, aliphatic solvents, ketones, esters, and mixed-solvent blends, giving formulators broad flexibility to optimize performance across different processing environments, climates, and end-use requirements.
Unlike older organoclays that require stringent processing conditions, CLAYTONE-APA is designed for easier activation and produces strong rheology even at lower incorporation levels, providing cost efficiency while maintaining high performance.
In coatings, CLAYTONE-APA contributes to enhanced sag control, superior pigment suspension, and the prevention of hard-settling in storage, especially in high-solids, high-build, and corrosion-protective systems.
In industrial maintenance coatings, the additive helps maintain uniform distribution of anticorrosive pigments such as zinc phosphate and micaceous iron oxide, improving long-term protection and coating durability.
In automotive and heavy-duty primers, the thixotropic structure delivered by CLAYTONE-APA allows thicker film application without defects such as runs, curtains, or uneven coverage.
In ink and printing applications, CLAYTONE-APA stabilizes pigment dispersions, improves print sharpness, maintains viscosity consistency, and reduces issues related to pigment flotation or flooding.
For grease and lubricant systems, the clay’s ability to form an elastic, thermally stable gel structure provides excellent mechanical stability, ensures resistance to oil separation, and enhances load-bearing properties under dynamic operating conditions.
The market significance of CLAYTONE-APA lies in its versatility, predictable performance, and compatibility with both modern and traditional formulation technologies.
CLAYTONE-APA's high activation efficiency allows formulators to achieve strong rheological profiles with minimal additive loading, reducing formulation cost and improving sustainability.
The product’s consistent quality, narrow particle size distribution, and reliable performance across different production batches make it a preferred choice for formulators seeking reproducible results in large-scale manufacturing.
CLAYTONE-APA also exhibits excellent shelf stability, low dusting behavior, and minimal odor, aiding handling and workplace safety.
CLAYTONE-APA maintains structural integrity across a wide temperature range, ensuring rheological stability during storage, shipping, and end-use application.
In demanding industrial environments, CLAYTONE-APA resists thermal thinning, chemical degradation, and phase separation, contributing to longer coating life and improved protective performance.
Uses of CLAYTONE-APA:
CLAYTONE-APA is used as a high-performance rheological additive across a wide spectrum of solventborne industrial formulations where controlled thixotropy, anti-settling capability, viscosity build, and structural reinforcement are required.
CLAYTONE-APA's organophilic smectite structure allows it to form stable three-dimensional networks in organic media, making it a versatile component in many demanding systems.
In industrial protective coatings, CLAYTONE-APA is incorporated to stabilize heavy anticorrosive pigments such as zinc phosphate, micaceous iron oxide, and aluminum flakes.
This prevents pigment settling during long storage periods and ensures uniform distribution throughout application, improving the long-term durability, corrosion resistance, and adhesion performance of marine coatings, structural steel coatings, and heavy-duty maintenance paints.
In high-build systems, the additive greatly enhances vertical film hold and prevents sagging, allowing applicators to lay down thick protective films in a single pass without compromising film integrity.
In decorative and architectural coatings formulated in solventborne media, CLAYTONE-APA provides body, consistency, and enhanced brushability.
CLAYTONE-APA's strong shear-thinning behavior contributes to smooth application while suppressing dripping and sagging on vertical surfaces.
In alkyd-based enamels, solventborne acrylics, and polyurethane-modified systems, CLAYTONE-APA helps maintain gloss and film clarity by producing controlled thixotropy without introducing haze or particle scattering.
In printing inks, CLAYTONE-APA improves pigment stability, prevents flooding or pigment flotation, and enhances print uniformity.
The organoclay contributes to consistent viscosity during long press runs, reduces misting in high-speed operations, and supports controlled flow and leveling that are essential for fine-line and high-resolution printing applications.
CLAYTONE-APA is widely used in solventborne flexographic inks, gravure inks, and industrial marking systems where formulation stability and print precision are critical.
In the field of adhesives and sealants, CLAYTONE-APA enhances the structural integrity and sag resistance of solventborne formulations.
By increasing yield value, CLAYTONE-APA prevents slump and maintains bead shape in elastomer-based and resin-based sealant systems.
In adhesives, especially those containing polychloroprene, polyurethane precursors, or styrene-butadiene resins, the additive ensures consistent viscosity, stabilizes suspended fillers, and contributes to uniform adhesive strength during application and curing.
In lubricating greases, CLAYTONE-APA serves as a thickener that forms an elastic, high-temperature-stable gel structure.
The clay network improves mechanical stability, enhances load-carrying capacity, and reduces oil bleed even under intense mechanical stress, vibration, or elevated temperatures.
CLAYTONE-APA's thermal resistance and inherent chemical inertness make it useful in specialty greases for industrial machinery, automotive lubrication points, high-temperature bearings, and metalworking applications.
In solventborne construction chemicals, CLAYTONE-APA is used in waterproofing coatings, protective membranes, concrete sealers, and elastomeric solventborne systems to improve rheological stability and film formation.
CLAYTONE-APA's ability to provide strong viscosity build at low shear ensures effective suspension of fillers and performance-enhancing additives, while its shear-thinning behavior supports easy application over large surfaces.
In specialty industrial formulations such as corrosion-inhibiting primers, automotive refinishing systems, high-solids coatings, anti-fouling paints, road-marking coatings, and solventborne barrier films, CLAYTONE-APA plays a central role in controlling the flow profile, preventing sedimentation, and ensuring consistent application behavior.
CLAYTONE-APA's compatibility with aromatic solvents, esters, ketones, and aliphatic hydrocarbons allows it to function efficiently in diverse solvent environments.
Because of its activation efficiency and versatility, CLAYTONE-APA is also used as a rheology modifier in synthetic resin dispersions, pigment pastes, high-density fillers, and specialty dispersions where maintaining suspension stability and controlling viscosity curves are essential.
CLAYTONE-APA's ability to form stable gels with minimal additive loading makes it suitable for cost-sensitive yet high-performance applications where reproducibility and long-term storage stability are required.
Benefits of CLAYTONE-APA:
Due to its special organic modification, CLAYTONE-APA is ideally suited to influencing the flow behavior of polar to medium-polarity coating systems.
Using the additive produces thixotropic flow behavior, and therefore results in significant improvements to the anti-sagging properties while at the same time maintaining good leveling.
This also optimizes storage stability, and prevents pigments and fillers from settling.
Coatings industry:
Special features and benefits:
Due to its special organic modification, CLAYTONE-APA is ideally suited for influencing the flow behavior of polar- to medium-polar coating systems.
Using the additive produces thixotropic flow behavior, and therefore results in significant improvements to the anti-sagging properties while at the same time maintaining good leveling.
This also optimizes storage stability, and prevents pigments and fillers from settling.
Recommended levels:
0.3–2% additive (as supplied) based on the total formulation.
The above recommended levels can be used for orientation.
The optimum dosage should be determined by application-related test series.
Incorporation and processing instructions.
The additive is incorporated while stirring, and preferably dispersed in the millbase at high shear forces for at least 10 minutes.
Alternatively, CLAYTONE-APA can also be incorporated using a 10% paste.
The effect of CLAYTONE-APA can be increased by adding a booster or small quantities of a polar solvent or water.
Powder coatings:
Special features and benefits:
CLAYTONE-APA is a rheology additive that can be used to increase the melt viscosity in powder coatings.
Even at low dosages, the melt viscosity during extrusion and during cross-linking reaction is increased.
The resulting coating exhibits good leveling properties.
At higher dosages, this produces a fine texture and reduces the gloss value.
CLAYTONE-APA can be used to modify the surface structure in fine textured systems.
The increased melt viscosity improves edge covering.
This results in increased anti-corrosive properties.
Recommended use:
The additive is recommended for powder coatings based on epoxy, polyester, polyurethane, and acrylate resins as well as polyester/epoxy combinations.
Recommended levels:
0.5–4% additive (as supplied) based on the total formulation.
The above recommended levels can be used for orientation.
The optimum dosage should be determined by application-related test series.
Incorporation and processing instructions:
The additive should be mixed with resin, hardener, pigments, and other raw materials using a high-speed mixer and then extruded.
Detergents, cleaning and care products:
Special features and benefits:
CLAYTONE-APA is a rheology additive used to thicken solvent and oil systems.
CLAYTONE-APA is also used to stabilize water-in-oil emulsions.
CLAYTONE-APA is self-activating and easily dispersible for medium- to high-polar systems containing compounds including aromatics, alcohols, glycols, and esters.
CLAYTONE-APA can also be used in non-ionic surfactants (alcohol ethoxylates).
CLAYTONE-APA requires no activator for gelling.
Recommended levels:
0.5–3% additive (as supplied) based on the total formulation, depending on the properties of the formulation to be achieved.
The above recommended levels can be used for orientation.
The optimum dosage should be determined by application-related test series.
Incorporation and processing instructions:
To achieve the optimum effectiveness, CLAYTONE-APA requires a high shear force during incorporation.
The additive is effective in a multitude of organic liquid systems and does not require a specific processing temperature.
CLAYTONE-APA can be dispersed using a high-speed mixer.
CLAYTONE-APA can be incorporated either as a pregel or in situ.
Pregels can be produced as follows:
Place the organic solvent in the dispersion vessel
Slowly add the CLAYTONE-APA (10% based on the pregel) while stirring
Stir for 15 minutes at high speed
CLAYTONE-APA can be incorporated directly during the production as follows:
Place the organic solvent or oil in the dispersion vessel
Slowly add the CLAYTONE-APA while stirring
Stir for 15 minutes at high speed
Continue to add the other recipe components
When post-adding to the finished system, ensure that CLAYTONE-APA is well dispersed.
Adding to a hot base can cause a very rapid external wetting of the powder.
These wetted particles with a “dry” core are very difficult to disperse completely.
CLAYTONE-APA should therefore be used in a system at a temperature below 50 °C.
The use of a high-speed mixer or a low-shear dissolver is required for a later dispersion.
Surfactants and emulsifiers may be added only after CLAYTONE-APA has been activated, otherwise the effect of the additive could be reduced or completely eliminated.
When using emulsions, CLAYTONE-APA should be incorporated into the oil phase.
Thermosets:
Special features and benefits:
CLAYTONE-APA is a rheology additive in powder form based on modified phyllosilicates and is mainly used in putty compounds and laminating resins based on unsaturated polyester resins.
CLAYTONE-APA prevents the settling of fillers.
In a combination of CLAYTONE-APA with booster additives, such as RHEOBYK-R 605, the dosage can be lower or the properties can be changed from a pseudoplastic to a thixotropic flow behavior compared with commonly used thixotropes.
Thanks to the modification, CLAYTONE-APA exhibits a stable rheology profile even at higher temperatures.
Recommended levels:
0.2–2% additive (as supplied) based on the total formulation.
The above recommended levels can be used for orientation.
The optimum dosage should be determined by application-related test series.
Incorporation and processing instructions:
CLAYTONE-APA can be incorporated directly into the resin.
CLAYTONE-APA can be dissolved with a longer dispersion time but relatively low shear.
Fillers can increase the shear and improve the incorporation of the phyllosilicate.
Alternatively, to achieve full effectiveness in UP resins (dosages 0.5–2%), a pre-gel can be prepared in styrene.
For this purpose,
4–6% CLAYTONE-APA must be incorporated into styrene.
At this concentration, the mixture can still be pumped, will flow and can be later dosed to the resin easyly.
The use of air release additive in such resins is advisable to reduce the quantity of air bubbles.
Key Benefits:
Rheology additives
Suited For a wide polarity range and many applications
Provide thixotropic flow
Shear-thinning For Easy application
Good leveling
Improvement of sag resistance and Anti-settling / storage stability
Self-activating grades need no polar activator
History of CLAYTONE-APA:
The development of CLAYTONE-APA is rooted in the evolution of organoclay technology, which emerged in the mid-20th century as industries sought more effective rheological additives for non-aqueous systems.
Early bentonite clays were naturally hydrophilic and showed excellent swelling behavior in water, but their limited compatibility with organic solvents prevented their use in solventborne paints, inks, and greases.
This limitation initiated research into transforming hydrophilic smectite clays into organophilic materials through cation-exchange modification with quaternary ammonium salts.
By the 1960s and 1970s, the foundational chemistry of organoclays had matured, enabling consistent intercalation of long-chain ammonium compounds between the clay galleries.
This modification significantly expanded interlayer spacing and introduced hydrophobic character, allowing the clay to swell and disperse in organic media.
Companies specializing in clay chemistry began producing standardized organoclays for use in high-viscosity greases and solventborne coatings.
However, early grades often required intense energy input for activation, lacked rheological robustness, and were sensitive to solvent polarity and manufacturing variability.
During the 1980s and 1990s, advances in mineral purification, surface chemistry, and milling technology led to the development of more refined organoclay systems with tighter particle-size control and improved reproducibility.
CLAYTONE-APA was during this period that the CLAYTONE series, including CLAYTONE-APA, began to gain industrial significance.
Through controlled selection of smectite sources, precise adjustment of organic treatment levels, and optimized drying and grinding methods, these products achieved better compatibility across a wider range of solventborne formulations.
CLAYTONE-APA distinguished itself from earlier grades by offering improved thixotropic efficiency at lower loadings, more predictable activation behavior, and broader solvent compatibility—particularly in both aromatic-rich and mixed-solvent systems.
In the 2000s, as high-solids and VOC-reduced coatings became industry priorities, the demand grew for rheology modifiers capable of supporting heavy pigmentation and high film build without sagging or settling.
CLAYTONE-APA was widely adopted during this shift due to its ability to develop strong low-shear viscosity while maintaining smooth flow under application shear.
CLAYTONE-APA's rapid recovery after shear made it suitable for modern spray-applied industrial coatings, automotive primers, and structural anticorrosive systems.
Over the following decade, improvements in clay beneficiation and surface-modification chemistry further enhanced the quality and consistency of CLAYTONE-APA.
Formulators increasingly relied on CLAYTONE-APA's ability to support zinc phosphate, micaceous iron oxide, aluminum flakes, and other specialty pigments in demanding protective coatings.
The additive also found broader use in lubricating greases, where CLAYTONE-APA's thermal stability and mechanical durability helped develop greases capable of withstanding extreme temperature and pressure conditions in industrial machinery.
Today, CLAYTONE-APA represents one of the mature, industry-standard organoclays for solventborne rheology modification.
CLAYTONE-APA's history reflects decades of development in organophilic clay technology—from the first generation of basic ammonium-modified bentonites to modern high-performance rheology additives engineered for efficiency, compatibility, and stability across diverse industrial applications.
Through continuous refinement of clay purification, organic treatment chemistry, and particle-engineering techniques, CLAYTONE-APA has become a trusted component in coatings, inks, sealants, lubricants, adhesives, and specialty solventborne formulations worldwide.
Stability and Reactivity of CLAYTONE-APA:
Chemical Stability:
CLAYTONE-APA is chemically stable under normal ambient temperatures and standard storage conditions.
The organically modified smectite structure does not readily undergo decomposition or polymerization when kept within recommended temperature and humidity limits.
The product exhibits high thermal stability due to the mineral lattice of bentonite and the inherent stability of quaternary ammonium surface treatments.
Reactivity:
CLAYTONE-APA is considered non-reactive toward most solvents, resins, and organic media used in coatings, inks, adhesives, sealants, and grease formulations.
The material does not participate in oxidative, radical, or polymerization reactions under typical processing conditions.
Reactivity is limited primarily to physical interactions such as swelling, interlayer expansion, and platelet dispersion.
Conditions to Avoid:
Avoid excessive heat, prolonged exposure above approximately 200 °C, open flame contact, and situations generating airborne dust.
Avoid moisture contamination, as humidity can cause partial swelling, reduced efficiency, and potential agglomeration.
Avoid strong oxidative environments capable of degrading quaternary ammonium groups.
Incompatible Materials:
Strong oxidizing agents such as peroxides, nitric acid, chromates, or persulfates can degrade the organic treatment.
Strong mineral acids may destabilize the clay structure at elevated temperatures.
Strong bases are generally tolerated but prolonged exposure to highly alkaline solutions can strip or hydrolyze the organic modifier and reduce organophilicity.
Hazardous Decomposition Products:
Thermal decomposition at extreme temperatures may produce carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, ammonia derivatives, and low-level organic vapors associated with the breakdown of quaternary ammonium surfactants.
No hazardous by-products are expected under normal handling.
Mineral dust at high airborne concentrations can be an irritant.
Handling and Storage of CLAYTONE-APA:
Handling:
Handle CLAYTONE-APA in well-ventilated areas to minimize dust formation.
Use local exhaust ventilation when transferring, mixing, or charging the product into equipment.
Avoid breathing dust or fine particles.
Avoid contact with eyes and prolonged contact with skin.
Employ careful transfer techniques to minimize dust clouds.
Use antistatic tools and grounding methods when handling large amounts of powder in dry environments.
Storage:
Store in tightly sealed original bags or sealed containers in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location.
Protect the product from moisture intrusion, as water absorption can cause premature swelling and loss of performance.
Keep away from heat sources, open flames, and incompatible oxidizing agents.
Long-term stability is maintained when stored below 40 °C in low-humidity conditions.
Avoid stacking extremely heavy loads that may compact the powder.
Packaging Materials:
Multi-layer, moisture-resistant bags or lined fiber drums are recommended.
Avoid storing in permeable or damaged packaging that might allow humidity migration.
First Aid Measures of CLAYTONE-APA:
Inhalation:
If dust is inhaled, remove the person to fresh air.
Keep the individual at rest and ensure adequate ventilation.
Rinse the mouth and nose gently with water.
If coughing, wheezing, or persistent irritation occurs, seek medical attention.
High dust exposure may cause temporary mechanical irritation but is not expected to cause systemic toxicity.
Skin Contact:
Wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water.
Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.
CLAYTONE-APA is not inherently corrosive or sensitizing, but prolonged exposure may cause mild dryness or irritation.
If irritation persists, consult medical personnel.
Eye Contact:
Rinse eyes immediately with plenty of clean water for at least 10–15 minutes while holding eyelids open to flush particles from the eye surface.
Do not rub the eyes, as the clay’s fine mineral particles may cause mechanical abrasion.
Seek medical evaluation if redness, discomfort, or vision changes occur.
Ingestion:
If ingested, rinse mouth with water.
Do not induce vomiting unless directed by medical personnel.
CLAYTONE-APA is considered low-toxicity, but ingestion of large quantities may cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or if large amounts were swallowed.
Firefighting Measures of CLAYTONE-APA:
Suitable Extinguishing Media:
Use water spray, dry chemical, foam, or carbon dioxide extinguishing media.
CLAYTONE-APA itself is not highly flammable, but packaging materials or surrounding combustible substances may burn.
Specific Hazards Arising from the Product:
Although the clay mineral portion is non-combustible, the organic quaternary ammonium treatment may decompose at very high temperatures.
Combustion or thermal decomposition may release carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, nitrogen compounds, and low-level organic vapors.
Dust clouds may pose a minor explosion risk in extreme conditions with strong ignition sources, although the risk is significantly lower than for pure organic powders.
Protective Equipment for Firefighters:
Wear full protective firefighting gear and self-contained breathing apparatus to avoid inhalation of smoke, decomposition vapors, or airborne particulates.
Avoid disturbing settled powder during suppression to minimize airborne dust.
Special Precautions:
Cool exposed containers with water spray to prevent heat-induced rupture.
Prevent runoff from extinguishing efforts from entering water systems when possible.
Accidental Release Measures of CLAYTONE-APA:
Personal Precautions:
Avoid breathing dust and prevent unnecessary personnel entry into the spill area.
Use proper respiratory protection if ventilation is inadequate.
Eliminate ignition sources in the case of heavy airborne dust, although the material is only minimally combustible.
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Environmental Precautions:
CLAYTONE-APA is not classified as environmentally hazardous, and the mineral component is naturally occurring.
However, large releases to soil or water should be minimized as clay suspensions may cause turbidity and sedimentation effects.
Prevent contamination of drains or waterways where feasible.
Cleanup Procedures:
For dry spills, use non-sparking tools and gently collect spilled material with a vacuum system equipped with a HEPA filter or by sweeping carefully to avoid dust clouds.
Place material into suitable closed containers for disposal or recycling.
For wetted material, scoop into containers; do not allow to dry into compacted lumps.
Wash the spill area with water after removal to eliminate residual dust.
Waste Disposal:
Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations.
CLAYTONE-APA is typically non-hazardous waste and may be disposed of as industrial solid waste unless contaminated with hazardous materials.
Exposure Controls / Personal Protective Equipment of CLAYTONE-APA:
Engineering Controls:
Provide adequate ventilation in processing areas.
Local exhaust ventilation is recommended at points where dust is generated, such as hopper feeds, mixers, weigh stations, or bag opening stations.
Enclosed handling systems and dust-collection units help control airborne concentrations.
Maintain workplace dust levels below recommended occupational exposure limits for nuisance dust.
Respiratory Protection:
Use NIOSH-approved particulate respirators (such as N95, P2, or equivalent) when airborne dust cannot be adequately controlled by engineering methods.
In heavy dust conditions or confined spaces, a powered air-purifying respirator or air-supplied respirator may be required.
Eye Protection:
Wear safety glasses with side shields or chemical splash goggles to prevent mechanical irritation from airborne clay particles.
Operators handling bulk dusty materials should use higher-grade protective eyewear.
Skin and Body Protection:
Use appropriate protective clothing such as gloves, long sleeves, and suitable workwear to prevent prolonged contact.
Nitrile, PVC, or latex gloves are sufficient for routine handling.
Clay dust may dry the skin, so barrier creams and regular washing are recommended.
Hygiene Measures:
Wash hands and exposed skin after handling.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke in handling areas.
Remove contaminated clothing and launder before reuse.
Maintain clean workstations to avoid dust accumulation.
Environmental Exposure Controls:
Use containment systems and dust extraction units to prevent release into the workplace or environment.
Avoid disposal into open water systems.
Identifiers of CLAYTONE-APA:
Chemical Name: Organophilic smectite clay modified with quaternary ammonium compounds
Trade Name: CLAYTONE-APA
Synonyms: Organoclay, Organophilic Bentonite, Modified Montmorillonite
Chemical Family: Surface-treated layered silicate (smectite)
CAS Number: 1302-78-9
EC/EINECS: 215-108-5
UN Number: Not regulated
HS Code: Typically 2508.40 or 3824.99
Regulatory Status: Generally compliant with TSCA, REACH (exempt as mineral), DSL, AICS/AIIC, KECI, ENCS
Properties of CLAYTONE-APA:
Appearance: Light-colored, fine, free-flowing powder
Odor: Very low, nearly odorless
Physical State: Solid particulate organoclay
pH (5–10% slurry): Approximately 6–9
Bulk Density: 300–650 kg/m³
True Density: 2.2–2.7 g/cm³
Solubility: Insoluble in water; swells/exfoliates in organic solvents
Flash Point: Non-flammable
Decomposition Temperature: Organic modifier decomposes above ~200–260 °C
Thermal Stability: High, mineral lattice stable >700 °C
Particle Size: Micron-scale, fine powder
Vapor Pressure: Negligible
Viscosity Effect: Strong thixotropy and high low-shear viscosity in solventborne systems
Hygroscopicity: Slightly hygroscopic; moisture lowers performance
Explosive Risk: Very low; minimal dust hazard under extreme conditions
Specifications of CLAYTONE-APA:
Appearance: Light cream to off-white fine powder
Chemical Nature: Organophilic smectite clay modified with quaternary ammonium compounds
Moisture Content: Typically <3% (loss on drying at 105 °C)
Bulk Density: 300–650 kg/m³ (grade-dependent)
Fineness: ≥95% passing 75 μm sieve
Organic Treatment Level: Optimized for solventborne compatibility (proprietary percentage)
pH (5% aqueous slurry): 6.0–9.0
Volatile Content: Negligible
Thermal Stability: Organic component stable up to ~200–260 °C; mineral fraction >700 °C
Oil Absorption: High, consistent with rheology-modifying organoclays
Rheological Efficiency: High yield value and strong thixotropy in aromatic, aliphatic, ester, and ketone systems
Dispersibility: Requires high-shear activation; compatible with polar activators
Solvent Compatibility: Broad; optimized for solventborne coatings, inks, adhesives, and greases
Storage Stability: Excellent when kept dry and sealed
