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Particle size distribution of bentonite under different conditions: effect of the dispersion method.

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Title: Particle size distribution of bentonite under different conditions: effect of the dispersion method.
Authors: Zhang, Chenghao1 (AUTHOR) Chenghao.Zhang@Ugent.be, Bezuijen, Adam1 (AUTHOR)
Source: International Journal of Geotechnical Engineering. Sep2025, Vol. 19 Issue 9, p846-859. 14p.
Subjects: Particle size distribution, Drilling fluids, Drilling muds, Shearing force, Bentonite
Abstract: Bentonite, renowned for its absorption and swelling, is widely used as a drilling fluid. Its particle size distribution (PSD) significantly affects infiltration and filter cake formation, yet research frequently omits essential details like testing conditions, equipment, and concentration. To provide a comparative analysis, the PSD of commercial bentonites (Colclay D90 and IBECO S) was evaluated under dry, wet, and hydrated conditions. Hydrated bentonite prepared with high-speed mixing and hydration showed the smallest particle sizes, followed closely by sonication-dispersed wet bentonite, and then dry bentonite. The d85 differences between hydrated and dry states were substantial: 76.56 μm for Colclay and 136.07 μm for IBECO. Interestingly, Colclay had smaller dry particles but larger hydrated ones compared to IBECO. This study revealed there is no 'real' particle size for field slurries, as high concentrations increase PSD while mixing and shear stress may reduce it, emphasizing the importance of clearly describing PSD measurement methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Engineering Source
Description
Abstract:Bentonite, renowned for its absorption and swelling, is widely used as a drilling fluid. Its particle size distribution (PSD) significantly affects infiltration and filter cake formation, yet research frequently omits essential details like testing conditions, equipment, and concentration. To provide a comparative analysis, the PSD of commercial bentonites (Colclay D90 and IBECO S) was evaluated under dry, wet, and hydrated conditions. Hydrated bentonite prepared with high-speed mixing and hydration showed the smallest particle sizes, followed closely by sonication-dispersed wet bentonite, and then dry bentonite. The d85 differences between hydrated and dry states were substantial: 76.56 μm for Colclay and 136.07 μm for IBECO. Interestingly, Colclay had smaller dry particles but larger hydrated ones compared to IBECO. This study revealed there is no 'real' particle size for field slurries, as high concentrations increase PSD while mixing and shear stress may reduce it, emphasizing the importance of clearly describing PSD measurement methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:19386362
DOI:10.1080/19386362.2025.2559044