Mineralogy and Thermal Behaviour of the Kaolinitic Clay of Loutété (Congo-Brazzaville)

J M Moutou , R Mbedi , A. Elimbi (1) , D. Njopwouo (2) , J. Yvon (3) , Odile Barres (3) , H R Ntekela

1 University of Yaounde I, Dept Chim Inorgan, Lab Physicochim Mat Min, Yaounde, Cameroon
2 Univ Yaounde I, Fac Sci, Dept Inorgan Chem, Yaounde, Cameroon
3 LEM - Laboratoire Environnement et Minéralurgie

The mineralogical and chemical composition and the technological properties of the raw material used by craftsmen of Loutete, locality in the south of Congo republic, for manufacturing fired bricks were characterized. The X-ray Diffraction, IR spectroscopy, ATD, ATG and AEG were used. The Atterberg limits and the particle size distribution were measured. The linear shrinkage, the water absorption, open porosity, apparent density and flexural strength of different bodies at temperatures from 800 to 1150ºC were measured. The diffraction patterns of different bodies were registered. Kaolinite is the major clay mineral in this sample. The Winkler diagram and clay workability chart allowed to consider this material convenient for roof tiles manufacturing. The open porosity and the chemical composition are close to that of stoneware. The addition of sintering agent and shortening material are necessary for improving the technological properties in stoneware, floor and wall tiles.

Mots clés: Kaolinitic clay; mineral composition; physical properties; thermal behavior; Winkler diagram; workability chart

Domaines: Géologie appliquée; Géochimie; Pétrographie; Minéralogie

J M Moutou, R Mbedi, A. Elimbi, D. Njopwouo, J. Yvon, et al.. Mineralogy and Thermal Behaviour of the Kaolinitic Clay of Loutété (Congo-Brazzaville). Research Journal of Environmental and Earth Sciences, 2012, 4, pp.316 - 324. ⟨hal-02505729⟩