Recent Trends in Clay Mineral Performance Expectations and Market Growth in the Absorbent Pet Litters

摘要

The absorbent pet litter market remains oneof the most dynamic markets in the clay mineralsindustry, particularly the bentonite industry. Recentgrowth has placed this market among the ranks ofdrilling fluids, iron-ore pelletizing, and foundrymarkets in terms of total tonnage and scope of customeracceptance. However, the nature of this marketcontinues to change. Currently, product expectationsare moving towards increased convenience and improvedfunctionality while at the same time maintainingaffordable pricing. The trend towards scoopable or"clumping" litters at the expense of traditional or"non-clumping" cat litter in major markets reflectsthe enhanced performance of agglomerating Na-bentonite compared to Cabentonites and other clayminerals. Other market expectations reflecting a needfor convenient use are low dust generation and better odor control.