Physico-Chemical and Geotechnical Characterization of Two Clays from the Town of Dabou (Youhouill) with a View to Their Industrial Recovery

This study focuses on the characterization of two clays from Dabou (southern Côte d’Ivoire) for their potential industrial use. The study analyses two clay samples (DAB1, DAB2) from southern Cote d’Ivoire using X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) mapping, laser/sedimentation granulometry and Atterberg limits. We analyzed samples to determine their mineralogical, chemical, physical and geotechnical composition. The results reveal a predominance of kaolinite, quartz, goethite and illite. Silica and alumina contents are appropriate for use in ceramics. Both clays are kaolinite-rich aluminosilicates with elevated Fe2O3. Physical properties such as plasticity and grain size confirm their suitability for brick and tile production, while the iron content suggests possible application as heterogeneous Fenton catalysts for dye-laden wastewater. They are also suitable for other ceramic products and the iron content of these samples is high. These results emphasize the potential for local use of these clays in the building and craft industries. They can also serve as catalytic support for the Fenton process to treat dye-rich water.