ILLIT

Illite is a type of clay mineral that belongs to the group of phyllosilicates. It is characterized by its layered structure and is primarily composed of aluminosilicate materials. Illite is often formed from the weathering of feldspar and other minerals and is commonly found in sedimentary rocks, particularly in shales. This mineral is significant in the study of geology and soil science due to its stability and ability to hold water. Illite has important implications for the plasticity of clays, their shrink-swell behavior, and their role in the formation of soils. It can also affect the geotechnical properties of soils and is utilized in various industrial applications, including ceramics and drilling fluids. The name “illite” derives from its first identification in conjunction with a sample taken from deposits near Illiopolis, Illinois.