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FAQsFAQsLearn more about SMI member products and their wide variety of commercial, industrial and consumer applications. -
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Environmental StewardshipEnvironmental StewardshipThe SMI members are proud of their record as good stewards of the environment.
The Sorptive Minerals Institute (SMI) is the not-for-profit, national trade association representing the producers and marketers of products made from absorbent clay minerals.
Founded in 1970, SMI represents a multi-billion dollar industry whose products have a wide variety of commercial, industrial and consumer applications; from cat litter to cosmetics, and from pharmaceuticals to paints. SMI serves as the marketing, promotion and research arm of the absorbent clay industry with the goal of enhancing long-range growth and profitability.
Cat Litter
Absorbent clays have been used as cat litter since 1947. The absorbency of the clay granules makes them ideal for absorbing liquid waste and controlling odors. In addition, the clays act as a desiccant, drying out cat feces for easy disposal.
Oil & Grease Absorbents
Due to their porous structure, clay minerals can absorb and hold the fluid they have absorbed. Once the absorption has occurred the clay can be swept up leaving a non-slip and fluid free surface. This eliminates an all too common hazard leaving the workplace cleaner and safer.
Agriculture
Agricultural applications for clay minerals include carriers and drying agents. Carriers are used as a delivery system for crop protection chemicals. As a drying agent, carriers are mixed into fertilizers and pesticides to eliminate moisture.
Sports
SMI member companies manufacture a range of ceramic conditioners that contribute to the safety and playability of athletic fields, natural grass sports turf, and golf courses around the world to provide better growing conditions, reduce the need for irrigation, and help conserve water.
Membership
Membership in the Sorptive Minerals Institute (SMI) is open to any firm or corporation that produces and/or sells sorptive minerals, which are defined to include a variety of clays, specifically attapulgite, bentonite, diatomite and montmorillonite. The SMI conducts studies and research to improve the use and marketing of the industry’s products and promote the sorptive minerals industry.
