Prospects for the use of Pitov feldspar in fine ceramic materials

This study examines the mineralogical composition, processing, and application of quartz-feldspar raw materials in ceramic and porcelain production. The investigated deposit mainly consists of vein quartz and feldspar, with microcline content ranging from 50% to 85%. The estimated reserves of quartz-feldspar raw materials in category C2 amount to approximately 375 thousand tons, with quartz content at 68.5% and microcline at 18.2%. The quartz-feldspar concentrate meets the requirements of GOST 7030-67 and demonstrates favorable firing properties for fine ceramics. Studies of the kaolin–quartz–feldspar system show that reducing the particle size of quartz and feldspar enhances physical properties such as sintering efficiency, mechanical strength, and thermal resistance. Alternative raw materials, such as aluminosilicate minerals, offer promising substitutes for traditional feldspar, improving transparency, mechanical properties, and thermal expansion characteristics. The research also highlights the impact of feldspar composition on porcelain structure and firing behavior, with potassium feldspar being preferable due to its lower tendency to deform.