Abstract
In this paper the use of dregs, an inorganic solid waste generated by Kraft process, as an alternative raw material in red ceramic was evaluated. The raw materials, dregs and clay, were characterized by X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, particle size distribution by laser diffraction, differential thermal analysis and thermogravimetry. Formulations with varying dregs content between 0 and 40 wt% were prepared. The plasticity of mixtures was evaluated by Atterberg method. Specimens were obtained by uniaxial pressing and fired at 850 and 950 °C, then the following physical-mechanical properties were determined: flexural strength, firing shrinkage, water absorption, open porosity, bulk density and loss on ignition. Crystalline phases developed during sintering and final microstructure were evaluated by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. The results showed that incorporation of dregs until 20 wt% did not affect flexural strength, being possible its use in partial replacement of clay.
Keywords:
red ceramic; industrial wastes; dregs
