Raw clays in the production of ceramic and refractory tiles

Abstract

Raw clay samples from Serbia, mainly of kaolinitic, illitic and mixed nature, were tested for their possible application in the production of ceramics. Using various triaxial diagrams, the samples were sorted according to their chemical and bulk mineralogical makeup, and also particle size distribution to determine whether they could be employed in the production of ceramics and refractories. The areas in the ternary graphs determined in earlier studies concerning the expected color after firing and the applicability of the raw clays are checked and extended. The samples' water absorption and flexural strength were assessed using EN standard procedures after they had been hydraulically semi-dry pressed and fired at several peak temperatures between 1100 and 1300 °C. A novel triaxial diagram considering the position of the samples based on firing temperature, water absorption and modulus of rupture is proposed, and the areas of different kinds of ceramic tiles are defined. It is discovered that the different raw clays can be utilized to create refractory, as well as wall and floor tiles. This study supports the rational use of natural sources of raw materials.