Clay Mineralogy

clay mineralogy, the scientific discipline concerned with all aspects of clay minerals, including their properties, composition, classification, crystal structure, and occurrence and distribution in nature. The methods of study include X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopic analysis, chemical analyses of bulk and monomineralic samples, determinations of cationic exchange capacities, electron-optical studies, thermal studies by differential thermal analysis, and thermo-gravimetric methods. The singular character of these hydrous silicate minerals and the nature of the problems surrounding them justify the status of clay mineralogy as a discipline distinct from mineralogy. A common body of knowledge is involved, however, particularly with regard to studies of internal structure.