EN FR MINERALS AND MORE KAOLIN Kaolin is a rock from which the clay mineral kaolinite is derived. This one has been used for millennia as the principal ingredient in porcelain tableware. Today Imerys kaolins bring critical properties to a host of end applications ranging from paper to paints, fiberglass to cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. #1 Global producer of kaolin for sanitaryware #1 World kaolin producer for paper #2 Global producer of kaolin for fiberglass CHINA CLAY Kaolin, or ‘china clay’ as it is commonly called, is a hydrated aluminum silicate crystalline mineral formed over many millions of years by the hydrothermal decomposition of granite rocks. Hydrous kaolin is characterized by its fine particle size, plate-like or lamellar particle shape and chemical inertness. Metakaolin is manufactured by the calcination of kaolin to form an amorphous pozzolanic white mineral additive for use in cement based products. Calcined Kaolin is an anhydrous aluminum silicate produced by heating ultrafine natural kaolin to high temperatures in a kiln. The calcination process increases whiteness and hardness, improves electrical properties, and alters the size and shape of the kaolin particles. Imerys offers a wide range of innovative and sustainable engineered kaolin-based solutions to help optimize customer performance within industries as diverse as ceramics, cosmetics, paper and packaging, paints, pharmaceuticals plastics and rubber. 1 / 3 Our Wheal Remfry quarry in Cornwall, UK Kaolinite is a silicate clay mineral with the chemical composition Al2Si2O5(OH)4. PHYSICAL PROPERTIES High brightness Non abrasive Naturally fine particles Refractory, remains white after calcination Weak conductivity (heat and electricity) Hydrophilic and easily dispersed in water 1 / 1 Kaolin in crushed form IMERYS: #1 KAOLIN PRODUCER Imerys is the world’s largest producer of quality kaolin from its deposits and beneficiation plants in Brazil, US, UK, France, Ukraine, Australia and New-Zealand. Our products offer unique and specific geological properties which we fine tune to meet the specific requirements of the diverse markets we serve. PROCESS ENABLER AND PERFORMANCE ENHANCER In papermaking and fibre based packaging, Imerys kaolins bring improved surface functionality when used as fillers or coating pigments enabling papermakers to cut costs and foster more sustainable processes. Kaolins impart gloss, smoothness, printability and improved barrier performance in paper and packaging applications. Kaolin is a majority component for the ceramics industry, where its high fusion temperature and white firing characteristics make it particularly suitable for the manufacture of sanitaryware, tableware, wall and floor tiles and refractories. It is an essential ingredient in ceramic catalyst supports and diesel particulate filters used for emissions control in the automotive industry. Used by women since time immemorial in cosmetics, kaolins, such as those from our ImerCare® cosmetics range, are 100% natural ingredients for face creams, face masks and make-up where they are appreciated for their superior matting and sebum and impurities absorption. In the construction industry, Imerys kaolins, metakaolins and calcined kaolins are used to improve the mechanical properties, porosity and appearance of various types of concrete and cement. Kaolin provides an excellent alumina source for the production of fiberglass. Used in decorative paints formulations, it is an excellent natural opacifier and partial replacement for titanium dioxide, and ideal for use when high gloss is required. Imerys engineered kaolins are also used as multi-functional fillers to enhance the performance of adhesives and sealants, plastics and rubber. Imerys has in-depth knowledge of how kaolin interacts in its customers’ end products. Working closely with clients, we will continue to find value-added, kaolin-based solutions to help them enhance performance, reduce costs and minimize their carbon footprint. KAOLIN RELATED NEWS NEWS DECEMBER 07, 2020 Something to smile about: a 100% natural, mineral-based toothpaste In the pursuit of healthy white teeth, Imerys has found that toothpaste that combines kaolin and delicately engineered perlite provides highly effective dental care and meets consumers’ preference for natural ingredients. NEWS MAY 12, 2020 Using minerals to prevent contamination of medicines Calcined clay and talc provide the properties essential for the manufacture of secure and reliable rubber medical stoppers. HEALTH & PERSONAL CARE Natural ingredients for high performance products PAPER & BOARD CONTACT GROUP FINANCE TALENT MEDIA Follow us © Imerys 2021 Cookies Policy Personal Data Legal Terms WE USE COOKIES Our website uses cookies to allow for a personalized experience on our website and improve your user experience. For more information about our cookies please read our Cookie preferences. Mandatory Cookies These cookies are essential to enable you to navigate our website and use its features. These cookies are session-specific and expire after your visit to the website. Performance Cookies These cookies allow us to improve the user experience & performance of our site for our visitors, by measuring website usage statistics such as visits, top pages, and traffic. 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