Structural Modification of Bentonites by Intercalation of Aluminum Polyhydroxicationes

Abstract

Through a process of intercalation followed by microwave radiation, the structural modification of an oenological quality bentonite was performed. From complementary characterization techniques it was shown that the pillarization process induces structural changes, modifying the particle size distribution and its thermal stability. In this sense, through scanning electron microscopy, it was observed that the modified bentonites presented a greater porosity with the presence of larger pockets and pores. From laser diffraction tests, increases in the final average particle size were observed after the pillarization process. On the other hand, by X-ray diffraction, the displacement of the basal plane (001) towards smaller angles was corroborated and increases in the interlaminar spacing of the modified bentonite sheets were observed. Finally, by thermogravimetric analysis, the formation of pillars was corroborated through the observation of new stages of degradation, present in pillarized bentonites.