Abstract: A method of increasing the production or efficiency of a process in which a fluid is passed through a matrix the efficiency of which decreases with use in which the matrix is initially filled at a high rate, and an initial flow rate on the order of not more than three times the final flow rate is employed and subsequently decreased to a final flow rate which is lower than the constant flow rate which would be employed in such a process over a period of time such that the integration of the flow rate with respect to time yields a volume of product greater than or equal to the volume produced at a constant flow rate for such product. The above integrated feed program is described specifically as employed in magnetic separations.

Abstract: A method for controlling the viscosity of dispersed clay slurries is disclosed. In accordance with the invention, the problem associated with shipping or storing clay slurries in tank cars or tanks, that is, significant increases in the viscosity of the slurry which often results in the formation of a gelled mass, is overcome by the addition of gluconic acid or a salt thereof, such as sodium gluconate. The addition of the gluconic acid or the salt serves to control the viscosity of the clay slurry in a manner such that it remains at a substantially uniform and low level even when the slurry is shipped or stored over extended periods of time. The gluconic acid or gluconate is added to the slurry in relatively small quantities, i.e., up to 5.0 pounds/ton clay and unexpectedly does not affect the properties or characteristics of the clay pigment or product.

Abstract: A method for controlling the viscosity of dispersed clay slurries is disclosed. In accordance with the invention the problem associated with shipping or storing clay slurries in tank cars or tanks, that is, significant increases in the viscosity of the slurry which often results in the formation of a gelled mass, is overcome by the addition of tartaric acid. The addition of the tartaric acid serves to control the viscosity of the clay slurry in a manner such that it remains at a substantially uniform and low level even when the slurry is shipped or stored over extended periods of time. The tartaric acid is added to the slurry in relatively small quantities, i.e., up to 5.0 pounds/ton clay and unexpectedly does not affect the properties or characteristics of the clay pigment or product.

Abstract: A method for controlling the viscosity of dispersed clay slurries is disclosed. In accordance with the invention the problem associated with shipping or storing clay slurries in tank cars or tanks, that is, significant increases in the viscosity of the slurry which often results in the formation of a gelled mass, is overcome by the addition of citric acid. The addition of the citric acid serves to control the viscosity of the clay slurry in a manner such that it remains at a substantially uniform and low level even when the slurry is shipped or stored over extended periods of time. The citric acid is added to the slurry in relatively small quantities, i.e., up to 5.0 pounds/ton clay and unexpectedly does not affect the properties or characteristics of the clay pigment or product.

Abstract: A process for the electrokinetic separation of finely divided clay particles from an aqueous suspension thereof, the suspension being contained in an electrokinetic cell equipped with an anode and cathode separated by a semi-permeable membrane impermeable to clay particles. Upon activation of the cell with direct current, clay particles are caused to deposit electrophoretically on the anode. Simultaneously with the deposition of the clay deposit, portions of the water contained in the suspension and entrained in the deposit are caused to migrate electroosmotically through the membrane and collected at a cathode compartment, thereby increasing clay solids content.

Abstract: A method for controlling the viscosity of dispersed clay slurries is disclosed. In accordance with the invention the problem associated with shipping or storing clay slurries in tank cars or tanks, that is, significant increases in the viscosity of the slurry which often results in the formation of a gelled mass, is overcome by the addition of the pentasodium salt of diethylenetriamine pentacetic acid (DTPA). The addition of the diethylenetriamine pentacetic acid salt serves to control the viscosity of the clay slurry in a manner such that it remains at a substantially uniform and low level even when the slurry is shipped or stored over extended periods of time. The diethylenetriamine pentacetic acid pentasodium salt is added to the slurry in relatively small quantities, i.e., up to 5.0 pounds/ton clay and unexpectedly does not affect the properties or characteristics of the clay pigment or product.

Abstract: A method for preparing a coating grade kaolin clay from a crude clay including discoloring iron contaminants in the form of iron pyrites. The clay is roasted in an oxidizing atmosphere to convert at least a portion of the sulfurous contaminants to a form exhibiting increased magnetic susceptibility and increased solubility in chemical leachants. Thereafter, the clay is formed into an aqueous slurry and subjected to a magnetic field to remove at least part of the converted components, and then subjected to conventional leaching and filtering operations.