CP-26 is an organophilic clay designed for cost-effective multi-application use across a wide polarity range. With a moderate organic modifier content (LOI 26–29%), CP-26 delivers economical gel performance in paints, sealants, inks, cosmetics, and oil drilling muds. Its self-activating character in moderate-to-high polarity systems eliminates the pre-gel step, simplifying incorporation. Fine dispersion fineness (≤40 μm) ensures smooth, homogeneous texture in finished products. Optional polar activator (20–30% by weight) is used when maximum gel performance is required in low-polarity systems.
Technical Properties
| Parameter | Specification | Test Method |
|---|
| Chemical composition | Organic derivative of montmorillonite clay | — |
| Appearance | Fine white powder | Visual |
| Moisture content | ≤ 3.5% | 105°C, 2 hours |
| Loss on ignition (LOI) | 26–29% | 1000°C |
| Bulk density | 0.45–0.50 g/cm³ | — |
| Fineness | ≥ 98% passing 74 μm (200 mesh) | Sieve analysis |
| Dispersion fineness | ≤ 40 μm | Hegman/fineness gauge |
Performance Characteristics
- Fine particle size and light-colored gel — fine white powder produces light-colored gel suitable for light-tinted paints and cosmetics
- Easy to use — no pre-gel required — direct powder addition to formulation; simplifies manufacturing process
- Self-activating in polar systems — forms gel without polar activator in ketone, ester, and aromatic solvent systems
- Consistent rheology development — predictable, reproducible viscosity and thixotropy across production batches
- Post-correction capability — viscosity can be adjusted after initial formulation
- Fine dispersion fineness (≤40 μm) — smooth texture for printing ink, cosmetic, and high-gloss coating applications
Applications and Dosage
| Application | Typical Dosage | Polar Activator |
|---|
| Solvent-based paint (aromatic systems) | 0.3–1.0 wt% | Optional (20–30% of CP-26) |
| Sealants and adhesives (polar solvents) | 0.5–2.0 wt% | Not required |
| Printing ink | 0.5–2.0 wt% | Optional |
| Cosmetics (anhydrous) | 1.0–5.0 wt% | Not required |
| Nano-composites | 1.0–10 wt% | Not required |
| Oil drilling mud (OBM) | 5–12 kg/m³ | Not required |
Cost-Performance Position: CP-26 is the most economical organoclay grade in the CP range. At LOI 26–29%, it has lower organic modifier content than CP-APA (32–35%) or CP-34 (28–30% LOI, but requires activator). For cost-sensitive applications where moderate thixotropy is sufficient, CP-26 delivers reliable performance. For maximum gel efficiency, upgrade to CP-34 with activator or CP-APA.
Incorporation Method
- Add CP-26 as dry powder to the formulation before the grinding/dispersion step
- Add at 0.2–1.0% of total formulation weight
- Disperse at high shear (1,500–2,500 rpm) for 10–15 minutes
- Optional polar activator: add 95% ethanol at 20–30% of CP-26 weight before high-shear dispersion for improved performance in aliphatic/aromatic systems
- Post-correct if needed after full formulation is assembled
Frequently Asked Questions
Does CP-26 require a polar activator?
CP-26 can be added directly without polar activator in moderate to high-polarity systems (ketones, esters, aromatic blends). For low-polarity systems (mineral oil, aliphatic), optional polar activator at 20–30% of CP-26 weight improves gel performance. This makes CP-26 flexible — self-activating where polarity supports it, activator-enhanced when maximum performance is needed in non-polar systems.
How does CP-26 compare to CP-APA?
Both are self-activating grades. CP-26 (LOI 26–29%) has lower organic modifier content than CP-APA (LOI 32–35%), making it more economical with slightly lower gel efficiency per unit weight. Choose CP-26 when cost is the priority and moderate thixotropy is acceptable. Choose CP-APA for maximum gel strength in high-polarity systems (ketones, esters) without polar activator.
CP-APA details → What is the dispersion fineness of CP-26?
CP-26 achieves dispersion fineness ≤40 μm under standard high-shear conditions — significantly finer than the bulk particle size (≥98% passing 74 μm), achieved through clay platelet exfoliation. This ≤40 μm dispersion fineness makes CP-26 suitable for printing inks (no plate/cylinder abrasion), cosmetics (smooth skin feel), and high-gloss coatings (no surface texture from undispersed particles).
Packaging and Storage
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|
| Standard packaging | 25 kg kraft paper bags with PE inner liner |
| Shelf life | 2 years from manufacture date |
| Storage conditions | Cool, dry, well-ventilated warehouse; avoid moisture exposure |
Related grades: CP-APA (higher gel efficiency, self-activating) ·
CP-10 (similar self-activating grade, finer dispersion) ·
CP-34 (highest gel strength with activator)
Related applications: Paint & Coatings ·
Printing Ink ·
Sealants & Adhesives ·
Cosmetics
