Characterization and Potential Ceramic Applications of Kaolinite Clay from Okelele, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

In this study, the characteristics of Okelele clay were investigated using microscopic and spectroscopic techniques for its potential ceramic applications. The raw clay sample was beneficiated by wet sedimentation and separated from impurities through a 63 µm standard sieve. The purified clay sample was characterized using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy interphase with Electron Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (SEM/EDX) and Thermogravimetry/Differential Scanning Calorimetry (TGA/DSC) techniques. The XRD pattern revealed the purified clay to be composed of predominantly kaolinite (66.22%) with a substantial amount of quartz (29.76%) and a trace amount of sanidine and cowlesite. The clay morphology exhibits non-spherical particles of various sizes with thermal phase transition stability above 450 ^oC. The EDX analysis revealed high alumina and silica content with substantial concentrations of free silica and iron oxide that can improve mechanical properties and withstand thermal conditions. From the results of the chemical characterization, the clay offers potential applications for ceramics, porcelain, pottery production and high-temperature refractories applications.