LUDOX^® CL contains 30% silica with an average particle size of 12 nm. Unlike other LUDOX^® grades, the surface of the silica in LUDOX^® CL is modified with aluminum to induce a positive sol charge. It is acidic in pH and typically used as a binder in coating applications that contain cationic types of polymers or surfactants. Here, the LUDOX^® integrates itself into the polymer network and provides increased strength and physical integrity to the film formed during curing.

The cationic nature of LUDOX^® CL also makes it well suited for modifying the surface of paper and other fibrous materials. The friction provided by LUDOX^® CL is incredibly useful in packaging applications for anti-slip purposes, where LUDOX^® increases the coefficient of friction, reducing slippage, telescoping, and paper feed errors of paper- and paperboard-based products.