Exploring the diversity of clays: Impacts of temperature on physicochemical changes, mechanical characteristics, and permeability, and their relevance to membrane applications

This study investigates the characterization of two clays obtained from the Safi and Fez regions, focusing on their analysis for filtration membrane applications. Various analytical techniques were employed, including chemical composition analysis, elemental analysis, mineralogical characterization, carbonate content determination, color assessment, plasticity evaluation, thermal treatment analysis (DTA-TG), mineralogical transformation study, fusion tests, membrane tests, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

The results reveal significant differences between the two clays regarding their chemical composition. The red clay exhibits a mineralogical composition comprising quartz, calcite, dolomite, hematite, illite, and kaolinite, whereas the gray clay contains quartz, calcite, dolomite, illite, talc, and montmorillonite. Furthermore, upon thermal treatment, both clays exhibit changes in their physical properties.

Despite the decrease in porosity and water absorption, as well as the increase in compression strength for both clays, the permeability of the grey clay increases, unlike the red clay, which exhibits a constant permeability beyond 1000 °C.

These findings highlight the diversity and industrial significance of clays from the Safi and Fez regions for filtration membrane applications. The contrasting properties of red and gray clays provide insights into their potential utilization in different industries. Exploring these clays’ behavior can lead to better filtration membranes and new industrial applications.