Mechanical potential reinforcing of three porous clays from Tunisia by adding the industrial ceramic waste

Abstract

In this work, the reinforcing mechanics of ceramic products of three porous clays from Tunisia were investigated by adding non-plastic minerals such as the industrial ceramic waste. Three different mixtures (X1, X2, and X3) were prepared and assessed for their possible ceramic applications. X-ray diffraction, thermal analyses, dilatometry, scanning electron microscopy, and physical–mechanical tests such as stress to strength, Young modulus, shear modulus, and water absorption were used to evaluate the phase evolution and microstructure of the mixtures fired between 900 and 1150 °C for X1 and X2 and between 900 and 1100 °C for X3. The required performance of the ceramic product has been improved due to the formation of the vitreous and anorthite phases. The European Norm EN 14411 was used to classify ceramic products for each firing temperature and to determine their field of application. In accordance with this Norm, X1 and X2 sintering at 1150 °C for 12 min with water absorption ≤ 0.5% can be used for the porcelainized and fully vitrified stoneware production. X3 sintering at 1100 °C for 12 min with water absorption of ˃14% is suggested for the earthenware and unglazed stoneware production.