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 acid/electrolyte-compatible magnesium aluminum silicate grade. It provides lower dispersion viscosity than HV but gives better practical robustness in acidic or salt-containing systems.

All ClayThick grades in this set are used to 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.

ClayThick grade comparison

Product Description: High acid and electrolyte compatibility; useful for acidic suspensions. Hydrate the clay in the water phase with good agitation before adding difficult electrolytes, acids, pigments or high-load actives. The clay network develops gradually; final viscosity should be checked after full hydration and after electrolytes/pH adjustment are complete.

Usage: Acidic creams, lotions, gels and electrolyte-rich suspensions where R/HV may lose efficiency.

Mixing method:

- 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.

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

Product characteristics: 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.