Using of pyrophyllite bearing red clay for ceramic tile production.

In this study the use of the kaolinite, which contains very low levels ofpyrophyllite, as a ceramic tiles material was studied. Chemical, mineralogical analysis and thermal behaviours of the clay were determined. After analysing the chemical, mineralogical content and thermal behaviour of the clay, the shaping properties were determined according to Atterberg and Pfefferkorn plasticity tests. The samples that had been shaped with vacuum extrusion were fired at between 600 °C to 1200 °C with 100 °C internals. Mineralogical, physical-mechanical properties and microstructure of fired samples were determined. As a result, it was seen that the grain size of the clay and its plasticity values are suitable for ceramic tile and formation of secondary mullite as well as lamellar shaped pore structure at low temperatures (1100 °C) has positive effect on mechanical properties. It was determined that ceramic tile can be produced at 1000 °C for Group All_b and at 1100 °C for Group All_a according to Turkish Standard (TS EN ISO 14411). The colour and aesthetic appearance of the fired products correspond the market demands with smooth surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]