Smectite is a type of clay mineral known for its ability to expand and contract when it absorbs water. This property makes it useful in various applications, including drilling fluids, where it helps stabilize boreholes, and in the production of ceramics. Smectite is primarily composed of layers of silicate minerals, which can hold water and other substances between them. One of the most common forms of smectite is montmorillonite, which is often found in natural deposits. Due to its high surface area and ion-exchange capacity, smectite is also used in environmental applications, such as soil remediation and waste containment, helping to trap contaminants and prevent their spread.