PYROPHYLLITE AS AN ECOLOGICAL MINERAL OF THE FUTURE.

Pyrophyllite (Al2Si4O10(OH)2) is a layered phyllosilicate mineral with a basic 2:1 crystal structure, consisting of an aluminum octahedral layer placed between two silicon tetrahedral layers (T-O-T), connected by weak Van der Waals forces, which results in easy structural disruption. Natural pyrophyllite has an electroneutral surface, which causes a hydrophobic character. Due to its unique properties, such as low thermal and electrical conductivity, high refractive behavior, low coefficient of expansion, rheological properties, low bulk density, low deformation under high temperature, and chemical inertness, pyrophyllite is widely used in various industrial branches: refractory, ceramic, construction, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industry, production of pesticides, fertilizers, paper, paints, plastics, tires. Thanks to its unique properties, pyrophyllite shale from the Parasovići deposit, Konjic, Bosnia and Herzegovina, has shown the possibility of being used in many areas of life. This paper presents the results of research so far, which confirmed the wide application of natural, modified, and enriched pyrophyllite in various industrial branches, agriculture, and environmental protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]