Characterization and Evaluation of the Potential Uses of Mouyondzi Clay

Abstract

The overall goal of this study is to characterize and to evaluate the potential uses of clay mined in the Nzaou locality. The Mou sample is argillaceous texture and medium plasticity (Ip = 28.9). Kaolinite is dominant clay species (44.41%). It is associated with illite (9%). Quartz and rutile are the main non clay minerals. The CEC is 8.66 cmol+/kg. Organic matter is low (0.839%). Total shrinkage obtained by dilatometry at 1200˚C is 9.26%. The chemical and mineralogical compositions have allowed using the ternary diagrams of Fabbri and Fiori that the MOU clay is favorable for glazed white stoneware (GWS) and for the production of clinker (KLK). Dondi typologies of ceramic tiles according to body color (mostly depending on the iron oxide content) and compactness (expressed by water absorption) have confirmed the use for the manufacture of the GWS and clinker. Classification always according to Dondi taking into account the rate of kaolinite, the fine fraction (<2 µm) and plasticity index gives MOU clay to be considered as medium ball clays (BC1). The absorption rate indicates that the body fired at 1200˚C will be vitrified. Flexural strength at 1200˚C (16 MPa) does not correspond to the requirements of GWS or a clinker.

Characterization and Valuation of a Clay Soil Sampled in Lond&amp;#233;la-Kayes in the Republic of Congo

“…The structural determination of a clay, directs towards the use of it. In recent years, our laboratory, which favors applied research, has been interested in some applications of clay raw materials, in particular the field of ceramics and, above all, has worked to determine for many clayey sites in Congo Brazzaville the physico-chemical, thermal and mineralogical compositions as well as geotechnical properties [4] [5] [6] [7] [8]. In Londéla-kayes, clay soils are mainly used by rural populations for the manufacture of fired bricks.…”

Effect of the plant waste onto the properties of use and the microstructure of phyllosilicates based ceramics

“…The properties of clay based ceramics depend on the characteristics, mineralogical composition of the parent clay and the processing conditions. The knowledge of these characteristics can help for a best exploitation and eventually may open‐up new areas of application 7‐9 . For example, kaolins are widely used for the manufacture of porcelains (porcellanatta, bone china…) and stoneware as well as for white earthenware products.…”