Open/Close Mobile Menu Open/Close Mobile Menu

A bright future for halloysite?

By IM Staff
Published: Monday, 18 July 2016

HNTs are naturally occurring structures within deposits of the mineral halloysite. Although they are already widely used in ceramics, new research into HNTs is revealing their potential for use in applications ranging from cancer drugs to animal feed, Frank Hart explains.

Hall1

Halloysite can be used in sun screens, nail varnish and toothpaste. (Source: Gerry Lauzon/Flickr)


Halloysite is a naturally occurring alumino-silicate clay mineral with the chemical formula Al2Si2O5 (OH) 4. It is similar to kaolinite, but crystalises as hollow tubes rather than flat plates, or "books" of plates. Because the...

This is a preview of the full article

Logo
  • 2 years pricing data on all minerals
  • The latest global news and features
  • Print magazine
  • Article archive ranging from 1988
  • Access on the move with IM Insight mobile app




Take a Trial or Subscription today. Start below: