pyrophyllite
/ˌpaɪrəˈfɪlaɪt/
noun
- A soft, pale-colored mineral that feels soapy or greasy, often used in ceramics, pencils, and as a heat-resistant material.
- Pyrophyllite is added to ceramic clay to help it withstand high temperatures during firing.
- The artist carved a small sculpture from a block of pyrophyllite because it is easy to shape.
- Some industrial pencils use pyrophyllite as a substitute for graphite.
Synonyms