Bentonite clay is widely used in drilling operations for various industries, including:

1. Oil and gas drilling: Bentonite is used as a component of drilling mud to increase viscosity, stabilize boreholes, and prevent fluid loss.
2. Water well drilling: Bentonite is used to improve drilling fluid properties, reduce fluid loss, and stabilize the borehole.
3. Geotechnical drilling: Bentonite is used to improve drilling fluid properties and stabilize the borehole in geotechnical investigations.
4. Mining drilling: Bentonite is used in drilling operations to improve drilling fluid properties and stabilize the borehole.
5. Horizontal directional drilling (HDD): Bentonite is used as a drilling fluid additive to improve hole stability and reduce fluid loss.

The benefits of using bentonite clay in drilling operations include:

1. Improved hole stability
2. Reduced fluid loss
3. Increased viscosity
4. Enhanced borehole stability
5. Reduced drilling fluid costs

Bentonite clay is an essential component in drilling operations, helping to ensure safe, efficient, and cost-effective drilling processes.