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Safety Reference · Adsorbent

Bentonite Clay

General handling and safety reference information.

General reference only — not the official SDS. This page is a general educational summary, not the legally required Safety Data Sheet for a specific manufacturer's product. Request and follow the actual SDS from your supplier before handling, storing, or disposing of this material. You can view our supplier's official MSDS for this product below.

Official Manufacturer MSDS

This is the official Safety Data Sheet provided by our supplier, Gongyi Filter Industry Co., Ltd, for Bentonite Clay, revised September 25, 2026.

View Official MSDS (PDF)

Identification

Common Names
Bentonite Clay, Montmorillonite, Montmorillonite K10, Smectite Clay, Sodium/Calcium Bentonite
Chemical Family
Naturally occurring aluminum phyllosilicate clay (montmorillonite)
CAS No.
1318-93-0, per our supplier's official MSDS below. Generic "bentonite" is also commonly cited under CAS 1302-78-9 — confirm against the SDS for your specific batch.
Appearance
Fine, off-white to gray or tan powder
Used In
Full Kit (contaminant adsorption / coagulant aid)

Hazard Overview

Bentonite itself is a low-toxicity natural mineral, but the main hazard is dust: fine clay dust can irritate eyes, skin, and especially the respiratory tract. Depending on the source deposit, bentonite can contain trace crystalline silica — repeated, prolonged inhalation of fine mineral dust (silica-bearing or not) is a recognized long-term respiratory hazard, so dust control matters even though the material is not acutely toxic.

First Aid Measures

  • Eye contact: Flush with clean water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
  • Skin contact: Wash with water. Generally low irritation, but wash off to avoid drying/chafing effects.
  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air away from dust. Seek medical attention if coughing or irritation persists.
  • Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water. Not expected to be acutely toxic in small amounts, but seek medical advice if concerned.

Handling & Storage

Store in a dry, sealed container — bentonite swells substantially on contact with water. Handle in a well-ventilated area or use dust suppression when scooping or pouring dry powder to minimize airborne dust.

Personal Protective Equipment

  • Dust mask or respirator rated for particulates when handling dry powder
  • Safety glasses or goggles
  • Gloves for extended handling

Spill & Disposal

Sweep up dry material carefully to limit dust, and place in a suitable container. Wetted bentonite is dense and slippery when disturbed — allow it to fully dry where practical before removal, or wet it down first to prevent dust and clean up as sludge. Dispose of per local regulations.