Shapeability

Capability of bentonites (plastic masses) to be greatly deformed without forming any cracks.

The bonding property of bentonites is ensured by their very large inner surface area, their high water-absorbing capacity, the flakey shape of clay minerals, and the capillarity of the water-filled pores. The flakey minerals enclosed by a water film are able to shift in a parallel movement while movement perpendicular to the flake plane is prevented by absorption and capillary forces. Both effects are caused by the great shapeability capacity.