Characterization of clays from Slatina (Ub, Serbia) for potential uses in the ceramic industry

Abstract

This study focuses on the mineralogical and thermal properties of clay from "Slatina" deposit, Ub, Serbia. Sampled clays were analysed by XRD, IR spectroscopy, ICP-OES, DTA, specific surface area (SSA), cationic exchange capacity (CEC), gravimetric and grain size measurements. Results show that the studied samples have a medium content of smectite-illite minerals with smaller amount of kaolinite together with quartz, feldspars and goethite. They consist generally of fine particles with medium to high plasticity. Based on their mineral composition and physical properties (grain size, plasticity, CEC) the clays are suitable as raw material for the ceramics industry.