Hectorite

Synonyms: Hector clay; Hectabrite AW; Hectabrite DP; Ghassoulite; Laponite; SHCa-1; Strese & Hofmann’s Hectorite.

Description: Hectorite is a naturally occurring 2 : 1 phyllosilicate clay of the smectite (montmorillonite) group and is a principal component of bentonite clay. Hectorite occurs as an odorless, white to creamcolored, waxy, dull powder composed of aggregates of colloidalsized lath-shaped crystals.

Chemical Name: Hectorite

Adsorbent; emulsifying agent; viscosity-increasing agent.

• Hectorite is used widely in pharmaceutical preparations as an absorbent, emulsifier, stabilizer, suspending agent, thickener, and viscosity-controlling agent.

• Hectorite is a component of other naturally occurring clays and hence may be suitable for use in similar pharmaceutical formulation applications as an adsorbent, oil-in-water emulsifying agent, suspending agent, or viscosity-increasing agent.

• It is also available as a synthetic material. 

• Hectorite is used to modify the thixotropic behavior of pharmaceutical dispersions and for stabilizing oil-inwater emulsion bases.

• When combined with an appropriate cation, hectorite exhibits properties suitable for use as a contrast agent.

Contact between hectorite and hydrofluoric acid may generate heat.

Hectorite is a natural clay mineral that is not considered acutely toxic; therefore no toxicity values have been established. However, hectorite may contain small amounts of crystalline silica in the form of quartz. Dust can be irritating to the respiratory tract and eyes, and contact with this material may cause drying of the skin. Chronic exposure to crystalline silica may have adverse effects on the respiratory system. EU labeling states that the material is not classified as dangerous.

Observe normal precautions appropriate to the circumstances and quantity of material being handled. Avoid generating and breathing dust, and use eye protection. For dusty conditions, eye protection, gloves, and a dust mask are recommended

Attapulgite; bentonite; kaolin; magnesium aluminum silicate; quaternium 18-hectorite; saponite; stearalkonium hectorite; talc.