Characterization of raw clay materials in Serbia 0.063mm sieved residues

Abstract

Particle size is the effective diameter of a particle as measured by sedimentation, sieving, or micrometric methods. Particle sizes are expressed as classes with specific, effective diameter class limits. The broad classes are clay ( lt 2 mu m), silt (2 - 20 mu m dust fragments), and sand (over 20 pm). The physical behavior of a soil is influenced by the size and percentage composition of the size classes. Particle size is important for most soil interpretations, for determination of soil hydrologic qualities, and for soil classification. Physical properties of the soil are influenced by the amounts of total sand and of the various sand fractions present in the soil. Sand particles, because of their size, have a direct impact on the porosity of the clay. This influences other properties, such as saturated hydraulic conductivity, available water capacity, water intake rates, aeration, and compressibilily related to plant growth and engineering uses. Soil properties and application depend on many factors such as: raw clay row, mineralogical constitution quantity and category of accessory minerals, purity and chemical composition, as well as physical and thermal properties. The aim of this study is to determine mineral and chemical composition of 0.063mm sieve residues at a few localities in Serbia. Depending on a quality, clay is used as a raw material in brick or ceramic industry. Sand content is measured in the laboratory by the wet sieving method. Mineralogical composition of samples is determined using optical and XRF methods. Certain fragments are deeper examined with methods used. Results obtained enabled raw clay samples characterization at 4 different locations in Serbia. This way more soil profound evaluation is gained.