Abstract: Paper making processes, including microparticulate processes, which utilise bentonite are provided with bentonite in the form of a concentrate, or a dilute dispersion made by diluting the concentrate, wherein the concentrate is a dispersion of 15 to 40% by weight bentonite in water containing citrate and has a viscosity below 5000 cps and is a stable fluid. The concentrates are novel. They are preferably made by mixing alkaline earth bentonite with water and sodium citrate.

Abstract: Alkaline earth bentonite can be activated by the use of sodium citrate or other organic sequestering agent as activator. Dry blends of the activator and the bentonite can be provided.

Abstract: Reverse phase polymer particles having a size below 10 .mu.m are provided as a solid product comprising a solid dispersion of the particles in a wax matrix which is solid at 20.degree. C. and which melts below 250.degree. C. The product may be made by dissolving the wax into the organic liquid phase of the product of a reverse phase emulsion polymerisation process followed by distillation of the organic liquid and cooling of the resultant product. The product is generally in particulate form and can be used as a flocculant or viscosifier, especially as a textile print paste thickener.

Abstract: A flocculant, viscosifier or other water soluble or water swellable particulate polymer is formulated as a block having a dimension of at least 10 mm and which comprises a wax matrix in which the polymer particles are dispersed. The block can be made by blending polymer powder with the molten wax matrix and cooling and solidifying it. The block is of particular value for releasing flocculant into a flowing stream of suspension.