Characterization of Some Local Clay Minerals and Fabrication into Ceramic Floor-Tiles

Clay minerals deposits, which include, kaolin, ball-clay, fireclay and zircon, were investigated and used in fabrication of ceramic floor tiles. X-ray diffractometer (XRD-6100, Japan), was used to examine the various compositions and structures of the clay samples. 2000 grams of 0.005 mm grain size of each sample were homogeneously mixed into dough, compressed in metallic mould of 12 mm × 36 mm dimension, and allowed to dry for about 5 hours. Kiln draught oven, at 1200°C was set for glazing and firing of the moulded tiles, to ensure glossy appearance, smoothness and improved strength. XRD test showed higher content of alumina (Al<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>) and Silicon (iv) oxide (SiO<sub>2</sub>) in all the clay samples. The percentage composition of Critobalite, Diphosphorus trioxide (P<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>), Potassium Oxide (K<sub>2</sub>O) and Sodium Oxide (Na<sub>2</sub>O), were reasons for their excellent workability, improved mechanical and rheological properties of ceramics floor-tiles. Water absorption, chemical resistance, shrinkage properties of the different ceramic tiles were compare to some commercial products. This investigation had shown that locally available clay minerals could be fully integrated into ceramic industries to reduce cost of ceramic importation and create job opportunities for youths.