Application of β-Wollastonite on Bulk Density and Ignition Loss of Clay-Based Ceramic Materials

Abstract

This work focuses on the effect of β-wollastonite percentage with different particle sizes on the bulk density and weight loss of clay-based ceramics. The ceramic bodies were prepared by mixing clay with a synthesized β-wollastonite (5%, 15%, and 25%) using a solid slip casting method. The clay (75 µm) and β-wollastonite (63, 75, and 125 µm) were mixed and fired at 950°C, 1000°C, and 1050°C of firing temperatures. The fabricated ceramic material exhibited a maximum bulk density of 2.35 g/cm3 on 25% content of β-wollastonite, 63 µm particle size of β-wollastonite, and 1050°C of firing temperature. However, a minimum bulk density of 1.87 g/cm3 was found on 25% content of β-wollastonite, 125 µm particle size of β-wollastonite, and 950°C firing temperature. A minimum of 2.32% ignition loss was recorded on a ceramic specimen that contained 25% of β-wollastonite with a particle size of 125 µm and fired at 950°C of firing temperature. In contrast, a maximum of 4.37% ignition loss was observed at a ceramic body made up of 5% of β-wollastonite content with 63 µm particle sizes and fired at 1050°C. In general, the result shows that the firing temperature, the particle size of β–wollastonite, and the addition of β–wollastonite have a great effect on the bulk density and ignition loss of the clay ceramic materials.