ClayThick K™ (Magnesium Aluminum Silicate, e.q. Veegum K) is a water-dispersible smectite clay rheology modifier for cosmetic emulsions, gels, lotions, and suspensions. ClayThick K™ is the magnesium aluminum silicate grade selected when the formula needs clay suspension support in acidic or electrolyte-rich systems, with lower viscosity than ClayThick HV™.

All ClayThick grades in this set build thixotropic structure: they increase low-shear body, slow particle settling, improve emulsion stability, and help suspend pigments, powders, or active solids without making the formula feel like a simple polymer gel.

Grade Selection

• ClayThick HV™: Magnesium Aluminum Silicate NF Type IC, 5% viscosity 800-2200 cps, normal hydrating; highest viscosity and stronger suspension support above pH 6.
• ClayThick R™: Magnesium Aluminum Silicate NF Type IA, normal hydrating; general-purpose thickening and suspension support above pH 6.
• ClayThick K™: Magnesium Aluminum Silicate NF Type IIA, 5% viscosity 100-300 cps, normal hydrating; useful for acidic and electrolyte-rich systems with lower viscosity than HV.
• ClayThick Light™ / HS: Purified Bentonite NF, 5% viscosity 40-200 cps, quick hydrating; strongest electrolyte stability, fast hydration, and low acid demand.

Product Description

Lower-viscosity grade for acidic or electrolyte-rich systems. Hydrate fully before adding difficult salts, acids, pigments, powders, or high-load actives. The clay network develops gradually; final viscosity should be checked after full hydration and after electrolyte or pH adjustment is complete.

Applications

Acidic gels, electrolyte-rich emulsions, suspensions, color cosmetics, and systems that need clay suspension support with lower viscosity than HV.

How to Mix

• Pre-disperse slowly into the water phase under good propeller or homogenizer agitation to avoid fisheyes and dry clumps.
• Allow full hydration before adding high electrolyte loads, acids, cationic materials, pigments, or powders that may compete for water or change the clay network.
• Normal-hydrating grades (R, HV, K) need longer hydration time; ClayThick Light™ / HS hydrates faster and is preferred when quicker processing or stronger electrolyte stability is needed.
• Heat can accelerate hydration when the formula permits it. Re-check final viscosity after cool-down and after pH/electrolyte adjustment.

Use Level

Recommended use range: 0.5-5% depending on required body, suspension stability, and electrolyte load. Typical starting point: 1-3%.

Product Characteristics

Appearance: white to light-yellow powder; odorless to very low odor; pH of 5% dispersion typically alkaline for listed grades.

Solubility: dispersible/hydratable in water; not oil soluble. Use as an aqueous-phase rheology modifier or suspension stabilizer.

Storage: store tightly closed in a dry place at room temperature. Protect from moisture to prevent pre-hydration, caking, and inconsistent dispersion.