Serbian heavy clays behavior: Application in rough ceramics

Abstract

This study is focused on the behavior of five new deposits of heavy clays from Serbia, with the aim to evaluate their potential suitability as raw materials in rough ceramic applications. The Pfefferkorn plasticity coefficient (PC) and drying susceptibility using Bigot’s curve were measured for each raw sample. Thermodilatometric analysis (TDA) showed the behaviour of dry products during firing. Samples groups were fired in the range of 850°C - 1000°C. Water absorption capacity (WAC) and compressive strength (CS) were done in order to characterize clays after firing. Linear regression models were used to fit the results. Mathematical tools were used to determine statistical difference of major oxides content, shaping moist and compressive strength of dry laboratory products, using post-hoc Tukey`s HSD test. The chemical and mineralogical compositions of samples do not differ considerably, but their possible application does. All studied clays seem to be easily adaptable to a correct brick making process.