Sustainable Coating Materials: Exploring the Influence of Adjuvants on Kaolinite Suspension with Insights from Five Local Mining Clays

Abstract

Herein, we presented a comprehensive case study on the kaolin suspension derived from mining powder, with a specific emphasis on its mineral constituents within the size range of 2−5 μm and its suitability in spray applications. We have systematically investigated the influence of adjuvants, existing in both organic molecules and polymers, on the sedimentation behavior of clay suspensions. The investigations included the analysis of turbidity, dispersion weight, pH, and surface charge as key parameters. Our findings revealed that the specific presence of PEG−PPG-PEG, PAA, and PSAMA had a notable effect on delaying the suspension of sedimentation by the actual sediment weight as well as enhancing the uniformity of clay coating by the reflection efficiency of coating materials in PPFD units. To enhance sustainability in coating materials, it was essential to elucidate the optimal amounts of adjuvants and the pH levels as they are closely related to the efficacy of tree-coated spraying and soil conditions.