Characterization of Buriram volcanic clay for use in cosmetics

This research aims to analyze volcanic clays from four different Buriram sources before and after
decontamination to compare their cosmetic grades, as these clays are used as cosmetic ingredients.
The volcanic clays were characterized both before and after decontamination using various
techniques, namely, x-ray diffraction (XRD), flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry (F-AAS),
x-ray fluorescence (XRF), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and the Brunauer–Emmett–Teller
method. Further, the pHlevels were measured using electrical conductivity measurements.
Physicochemical characterization was performed by determining the percentage of organic matter
and cation exchange capacity. The decontaminated clay showed the lowest percentage of organic
matter and a high cation exchange capacity. After the removal of contaminants, the clay exhibited an
amorphous structure. In addition, the analyses before and after contaminant removal revealed a
decrease in the content of lead, nickel, selenium and copper, which were the heavy metals prohibited
in cosmetics. The primary components were SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O3, CaO,K2O, MgO, TiO2, andMnO2
considering the component for cosmetics. Microbiological tests revealed an absence of Escherichia
coli, fecal coliforms, and total coliforms. These characteristics theoretically indicate that the samples
are suitable for use in cosmetics. Moreover, Buriram volcanic clays show low levels of contaminants
and can be used as cosmetic ingredients.