ABSTRACT
The aim of this chapter was to give an overview of the mineralogy and chemistry of smectite-rich rocks, their genesis, important physical and physico-chemical properties, industrial and commercial uses, and principal deposits and world production. There are three major uses of bentonites: as a filler, as a binder, and as an adsorbent/absorbent. It is hoped that this review will give a more fundamental insight into how this resource functions as well as clarifying the important applications of this valuable commodity.
