NONTRONITE Meaning and
Definition
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Nontronite is a type of clay mineral that belongs to the smectite group. It is a hydrous aluminum silicate, with the chemical formula (Ca,Na)(Al,Mg,Fe)₅(Si,Al)₈O₂₀(OH)₄·nH₂O. Nontronite typically forms as a result of the weathering and alteration of volcanic rocks, particularly basalt, under specific geological conditions. It is commonly found in sedimentary rocks, clay deposits, and in the alteration zones of ore deposits.
Physically, nontronite is characterized by its layered, sheet-like structure, formed by stacks of individual mineral crystals. These layers have a net negative electrical charge due to the isomorphous substitution of Al³⁺ for Si⁴⁺, resulting in the ability to readily exchange and retain cations within its interlayer spaces. Nontronite is known for its greenish to yellowish-green color, but it can also appear gray or brownish. It has a dull to pearly luster and a hardness ranging from 1.5 to 2 on the Mohs scale.
Nontronite has several industrial applications due to its unique properties. It is commonly utilized in the production of catalysts, adsorbents, and as a binding agent in the ceramic industry. Its ability to retain and exchange cations makes it suitable for use in ion exchange experiments and as a potential heavy metal adsorbent. Nontronite has also found use in the field of environmental remediation, particularly in wastewater treatment and soil stabilization processes.
Overall, nontronite is a significant clay mineral widely distributed in nature, demonstrating numerous physical and chemical properties that make it useful in various industries and scientific research fields.
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A hydrated tersilicate of iron, found in small kidney-shaped masses, varying in colour from green to yellow-so called because found in Nontron, in France.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for NONTRONITE
- bontronite
- montronite
- jontronite
- hontronite
- nintronite
- nkntronite
- nlntronite
- npntronite
- n0ntronite
- n9ntronite
- nobtronite
- nomtronite
- nojtronite
- nohtronite
- nonrronite
- nonfronite
- nongronite
- nonyronite
- non6ronite
- non5ronite
Etymology of NONTRONITE
The word "Nontronite" originates from the name of the town Nontron in southwestern France, where this specific type of clay mineral was first discovered. The suffix "-ite" is commonly used to indicate a mineral, while "Nontron" refers to the place of its discovery.
