The Effect of Inorganic-Based Plasticizers on Clay Bodies

In this paper, the effect of two additives on the plasticity properties and drying sensitivity of a Hungarian clay were investigated. Two different sodium tripolyphosphate-based commercially available plasticizers (Fabutit 734, Budit 8H) were applied for experiments. The amount of the additives in the clay mass was changed between 0 and 0.5wt% relative to the weight of the dry clay and the plasticity was measured with two different methods. In addition to the plasticity of the clay mixes, the effect of the additives on the drying sensitivity was also analyzed with the Macey method. Results showed that the moisture content required to shape the clay body can be reduced by 1-1.5% with the mixing 0.1 and 0.2 wt% of Budit 8H additive.