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Clay is a natural material that is composed of mineral particles, such as silicates and aluminates. It has been used for a variety of purposes throughout human history, including pottery, construction, and art. In this article, we will discuss the different types of clay, their properties, and their uses.

==Types of Clay==
*There are several different types of clay, each with its own unique properties and uses:
*[[Kaolin clay]]: This is a fine, white clay that is used in ceramics, papermaking, and cosmetics. It is known for its high level of purity and is also used in the production of porcelain.
*[[Bentonite clay]]: This is a grayish-green clay that is known for its ability to absorb water and expand. It is used in the production of drilling muds, as well as in cosmetics and skincare products.
*[[Red clay]]: This is a reddish-brown clay that is used in pottery and brick-making. It is also used in construction as a natural building material.
*[[Ball clay]]: This is a fine-grained clay that is used in the production of ceramics, such as porcelain and earthenware. It is known for its plasticity and ability to hold its shape when fired.

==Properties of Clay==
*Clay has several properties that make it useful for a variety of purposes:
*[[Plasticity]]: Clay can be molded and shaped into a variety of forms, making it useful for pottery and sculpture.
*[[Adhesion]]: Clay particles have a tendency to stick together, which makes it useful for construction and as a binding agent.
*[[Absorption]]: Certain types of clay, such as bentonite, are highly absorbent and can be used to absorb liquids or oils.
*[[Porosity]]: Clay is porous, which makes it useful for water filtration and as a natural building material.

==Uses of Clay==
*Clay has a wide range of uses, including:
*[[Pottery and ceramics]]: Clay has been used for thousands of years to make pottery and ceramics, such as bowls, vases, and figurines.
*[[Construction]]: Clay is used as a natural building material, such as in the construction of adobe houses.
*[[Cosmetics and skincare]]: Certain types of clay, such as bentonite, are used in cosmetics and skincare products to absorb excess oil and impurities from the skin.
*[[Water filtration]]: Clay can be used in water filtration systems to remove impurities and bacteria from drinking water.
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[[Category:Clay| ]]
[[Category:Types of soil]]
[[Category:Sculpture materials]]
[[Category:Natural materials]]
[[Category:Sedimentology]]
[[Category:Sediments]]
[[Category:Phyllosilicates]]
[[Category:Soil-based building materials]]