In-situ carbonization of natural zeolite-alumina composite materials incorporated sawdust

Abstract

This research study investigates the potential use of traditional raw materials to synthesize new ceramic composite materials that can be used in different industrial applications. The composite materials were developed through mechanical activation, carbonization, and reactive sintering techniques. Natural zeolite from Tokaj region, alumina from Motim, and sawdust were used as starting raw materials. Stoichiometric amounts of the raw materials were mixed and milled in planetary ball milling followed by uniaxially pressing to produce cylindrical ceramic discs. The produced green ceramics were then sintered in an electric laboratory kiln under an oxygen-free environment at 1200 °C. In-situ carbonization of the sawdust was confirmed via X-ray diffraction. The thermal properties were also investigated by derivatography. The produced ceramic specimens were tested on microstructural characteristics, porosity, density, and water absorption.