Disaggregation of palygorskite crystal bundles via high-pressure homogenization

A simple and effective method, high-pressure homogenization, for the disaggregation of palygorskite crystal bundles was reported. The effects of high-pressure homogenization on the structure and properties of palygorskite clay were investigated. The palygorskite crystal bundles were disaggregated very well while keeping the intrinsic aspect ratio of the microfibers after homogenized at 50 MPa. Compared to natural palygorskite, the specific surface area (from 192 m2/g to 246 m2/g), micropore surface area (from 72 m2/g to 110 m2/g) and micropore volume (from 0.033 cm3/g to 0.051 cm3/g) of palygorskite were clearly enhanced after homogenization. In addition, a perfect dispersion of palygorskite fibers was obtained after homogenized at 90 MPa.

► A simple and effective method was proposed to disaggregate palygorskite bundles.
► The effect of homogenizing pressure on structure and property of sample was studied.
► Highly disaggregated palygorskite fibres with intrinsic aspect ratios were achieved.
► A perfect suspension of palygorskite was obtained after homogenizing at 90 MPa.