HECTORITE- ▸ Rheology modifier: Builds thixotropic viscosity in water-based systems.
- ▸ Suspending agent: Holds pigments and particles in suspension.
- ▸ Absorbent/bulking: Functions as absorbent and bulking filler.
A grade-specific Safety Data Sheet (SDS) — with the complete hazard classification, handling precautions, and transport information — is supplied with every shipment and available on request. Confirm all safety and regulatory details against the SDS for your specific grade.
Request SDS →Hectorite (CAS 12173-47-6) is a natural smectite (magnesium-lithium silicate) clay. It is used as a rheology modifier, viscosity-control and suspending agent and as an absorbent and bulking agent in personal-care, coatings and industrial formulations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is hectorite used for?
Hectorite (CAS 12173-47-6) is a natural smectite (magnesium-lithium silicate) clay used as a rheology modifier, viscosity-control and suspending agent, and as an absorbent and bulking agent in personal-care, coatings, and industrial formulations. RawSource supplies it in bulk to formulators. It builds thixotropic viscosity in water-based systems.
What is the difference between bentonite and hectorite?
Both are smectite clays, but bentonite is montmorillonite-based (aluminum-rich) while hectorite is a magnesium-lithium silicate; hectorite typically forms higher-clarity, more efficient thixotropic gels in water-based systems. The right choice depends on your viscosity and clarity targets. RawSource can quote to your formulation requirement.
What is hectorite's chemical identity?
Hectorite is a natural magnesium-lithium phyllosilicate clay, CAS 12173-47-6. Organically modified variants such as disteardimonium hectorite are used in non-aqueous systems. Request the CoA for mineral composition and the specific grade on your lot.
What grades of hectorite are available in bulk?
Hectorite is supplied in natural and surface-modified grades differing in particle size and gelling behavior for water-based versus non-aqueous systems. Specify your solvent system and viscosity target on the RFQ and we will confirm an available grade with CoA and SDS.
How is bulk hectorite packaged and quoted?
RawSource ships hectorite as a powder in bulk bags and drums scaled to coatings and personal-care manufacturing volumes. Pricing depends on grade, volume, and freight; submit an RFQ with your quantity and ship-to for a current bulk quote.