Bentonite, Smectite, Montmorillonite: Sorting Out the Terminology Confusion

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

If you’ve ever tried to source nanoclay and found yourself confused by suppliers using “bentonite,” “smectite,” and “montmorillonite” as though they’re interchangeable — you’re not alone. These three terms describe three different things at three different levels of specificity, and the confusion costs real money when buyers order the wrong material or pay a premium for a grade they don’t need.

Here’s the hierarchy, explained once so you never have to wonder again.

Smectite on Nanoclay Guide

Bentonite, Smectite, Montmorillonite: Sorting Out the Terminology Confusion