The interaction between an ammonium salt of polymethacrylic acid (PMA) and kaolin and its effect on the suspension rheology behavior have been investigated. Adsorption measurements showed significant affinity between PMA and kaolin particles. This adsorption takes place only on the edges of the surface of the particles. The shape of the adsorption isotherm suggests the formation of a monolayer according to the Langmuir model. The amount of PMA adsorbed on kaolin at the equilibrium depends on the pH and the ionic strength of suspensions. According to the adsorption results and the shape of kaolinite particle, the dispersant takes probably a plate conformation on the edges of the surface of the kaolin particle at natural pH (7.7-8) and low ionic strength but a loop conformation at acidic pH (5.5-6) and low ionic strength, and also at natural pH and high ionic strength (0.1 M). Good agreements were observed between adsorption results and rheological properties. The PMA has an efficacious dispersing power for kaolin suspension at natural pH (7.7-8) and low ionic strength. (C) 2010 Academie des sciences. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.