Estudo de uma ocorrência de argila do tipo ball clay na região de Mirasselvas, NE-Pará, para a aplicação na indústria de cerâmica branca

Abstract

The characterization of clay deposits is of fundamental importance to establish its best industrial use. This work aimed at the chemical, mineral and technological characterization of a clay from the Mirasselvas region, Capanema district, NE-PA. Analyzes were carried out by fluorescence of X rays, X ray diffraction, in addition to limit test of plasticity and liquidity. Subsequently, 10cmX5cm metallic matrix specimens were prepared, ressed at 100KN, dried in an oven at 110°C and subjected to firing at 900°C and 1200°C. The technological properties were determined by the linear shrinkage tests of burning, water absorption and loss to fire. The results prove that the amount of Fe2O3 is below the maximum limit established for the classification of a ball clay (1%) and has quartz, kaolinite and muscovite as the essential minerals. Even with 75% of its total particle size <0.062 μm, the material has no plasticity. However, it presents white burning color and results of retraction, water absorption and loss to fire within the range of the results of national and international reference clays, demonstrating potential use in the formulation of ceramic masses and even in the direct manufacture of white ceramics.