Phase evolutions, microstructure and physico-mechanical properties of ceramics from Meiganga kaolin: effect of Na/K2O and CaO addition

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper examines the potential use of pegmatite and marble as additives in amalgamation with Meiganga kaolin to produce stoneware products capable to resist high temperatures as well as enhancement the mechanical characteristics. Two series of ceramic products were formulated by partly replacing kaolin with 0, 3, 5 and 7 wt% of both pegmatite and marble wastes. The specimens were sintered at 1000°C, 1050°C and 1100°C. Fired ceramic samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and the microstructure of the products was determined using an environmental scanning electron microscope and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Also, the physico-mechanical properties were evaluated. Results divulged that, the addition of pegmatite or marble to kaolin enhances the strength of the ceramic body and act as a fluxing agent by promoting vitrification and glassy phase in clay after firing. The highest flexural strength results were observed with 7 wt% of pegmatite added at 1100 °C, with an increase ~ 35% compared to the control sample. High silica and alumina contents in pegmatite fill in voids, providing densification matrices. The incorporation of pegmatite allows to obtain a ceramic with better mechanical properties and energy saving as compared by the conventional ceramic.