Organoclay (organophilic clay) is used as a thixotropic rheology modifier, viscosifier, gelling agent, and adsorbent across nine major industrial sectors — from solvent-based industrial coatings to oil-based drilling fluids and high-temperature lubricating greases.
Organoclay functions in non-aqueous industrial systems by forming a thixotropic platelet gel network in organic solvents and oils — providing yield stress at rest (anti-settling, anti-sag) and low viscosity under shear (easy application and pumping). This makes it uniquely effective wherever a liquid must flow easily during processing but remain stable at rest.
The nine primary industrial applications of organoclay are:
| Industry | Primary Function | Key Performance Benefit | Treat Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paints & Coatings | Anti-settling, anti-sagging, thixotropy | Prevents hard pigment cake; stops sag on vertical surfaces | 0.2–2.0 wt% |
| Oil Drilling (OBM) | Viscosifier, gelling agent | Builds yield point and gel strength for cutting transport; prevents barite sag | 5–20 kg/m³ |
| Lubricating Grease | Clay thickener (no drop point) | Stable consistency above 260°C; outlasts soap greases in high-temperature service | 8–15 wt% |
| Printing Inks | Anti-settling, anti-misting | Prevents pigment hard-cake; reduces ink fly at high press speeds | 0.3–2.0 wt% |
| Adhesives & Sealants | Anti-sag, filler suspension | Vertical joint sealant holds without slumping; filler stays suspended | 0.5–3.0 wt% |
| Cosmetics & Personal Care | Pigment suspension, skin feel | Suspends UV filters and pigments; silky non-greasy feel | 0.5–2.0 wt% |
| Water Treatment | Contaminant adsorption | Removes petroleum hydrocarbons, BTEX, PAHs from contaminated water | Application-specific |
| Construction & Asphalt | Asphalt rutting resistance, coating sag | Improves high-temperature rutting resistance in PMB; anti-sag in bituminous coatings | 0.5–5 wt% |
| Water-Based Drilling | WBM viscosifier (high temperature) | Higher thermal stability than conventional bentonite above 150°C | 5–15 kg/m³ |
The correct organoclay grade depends on the application system — primarily the polarity of the continuous phase (solvent, oil, or water). Use the Product Finder to match grade to your specific formulation, or contact our technical team for a recommendation.
organoclay for paint
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Learn More →Our technical team can recommend grades and usage levels for your specific formulation.
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