Palygorskite mineralization in the Atotonilco el Grande formation (Hidalgo, Mexico): implications for catalytic applications

Abstract

 From an industrial perspective, palygorskite exhibits promising 
potential as a catalytic support, adsorbent, and cementitious 
additive. Dolomite complies with national and international 
standards for use in cement, metallurgy, and agriculture. Siderite 
constitutes a viable ferrous iron source, although its suitability in 
ordinary Portland cement requires further evaluation. 
Palygorskite, dolomite, and siderite from the Atotonilco el Grande 
Formation (Hidalgo, Mexico), located in a Pliocene rift-type 
geodynamic setting, were mineralogically characterized. Indirect 
exploration methods and advanced analytical techniques were 
employed, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron 
spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy with energy
dispersive spectroscopy (SEM–EDS), Fourier-transform infrared 
spectroscopy (FTIR), and gravity separation using a Wilfley 
shaking table.  
The results confirmed the presence of fibrous monoclinic 
palygorskite (PDF 96-901-0433), dominant dolomite (PDF 96
900-3518), and minor siderite (PDF 96-901-5686). XPS analysis 
revealed lithium (~0.3 %) in the palygorskite matrix, representing 
a novel finding for rift-related environments in Mexico. Gravity 
separation enabled effective isolation of each mineral phase 
based on density, facilitating detailed individual characterization. 
This work represents a pioneering contribution to the study of 
lithium-bearing clays and industrial carbonates in Mexican rift 
environments, with potential applications in strategic sectors 
such as catalysis, energy, metallurgy, environmental remediation, 
and construction.