smectite
/ˈsmɛktaɪt/
noun
- A group of clay minerals that can absorb water and expand, often used in drilling fluids, cat litter, and as a soil additive.
- Drilling companies add smectite to their fluids to help lubricate the drill bit.
- The soil in this region contains smectite, which makes it swell when it rains.
- Smectite clays are commonly used in cat litter because they clump together when wet.
Synonyms