How to Make a Sodium Bentonite Slurry

Sodium bentonite before being mixed

Sodium bentonite is a water impermeable clay. It is often used to line the bottom of ponds and waste pools. When dry sodium bentonite is hydrated, it swells, plugging the holes in surfaces and sealing holes. A slurry of sodium bentonite can be used to stop leaks in basements and other water basins. It is also used as a lubricant when wells are being drilled.

Things You'll Need

• 5-gallon bucket
• 4 gallons of water
• Steel rod
• 1/2 gallon of sodium bentonite

Instructions

1. Place half of the water into the bucket.

2. Stir the water and add some of the sodium bentonite.

3. Using the steel rod, mix the clay until it is fully suspended in the water.

4. Add more water to the bucket.

5. Alternate between adding clay and water to the bucket while mixing the slurry.

References

• Eytons' Earth: Preparing Bentonite
• Minerals Zone: Bentonite