AVALIAÇÃO DAS MATÉRIAS-PRIMAS E PROPOSTA DE CONTROLE NA FORMULAÇÃO DA MASSA PARA FABRICAÇÃO DE TIJOLO NUMA INDÚSTRIA DE MANACAPURU – AM

Evaluation of raw materials and proposal for control in the formulation of the brick-making mixture in an industry in Manacapuru - AM

Abstract

The formulation of the ceramic mixture is essential for product quality in the red ceramic industry. In this perspective, this research evaluated ceramic bodies composed of two clays from the Manacapuru/AM region. The raw materials, identified as Clay A and Clay B, were characterized by means of X-ray Fluorescence, X-ray Diffraction, laser granulometry and determination of Plasticity by Atterberg limits. In the second step of the study, five formulations were obtained from combinations of clays A and B in different proportions, being M1 (100% A and 0% B); M2 (0% A and 100% B); M3 (85% A and 15% B), M4 (80% A and 20% B) and M5 (75% A, and 25% B). Five specimens of each formulation were fired at 700 °C, 800 °C, and 900 °C to determine Linear Shrinkage, Water Absorption, Apparent Porosity, and Bend Bend Tensile Strength. The results of the chemical, mineralogical and physical analyses of the clays identified high contents of silicon dioxide (SiO₂) and aluminum oxide (Al₂O₃); predominance of kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4) and quartz (SiO₂); Clay A presented fine granulometry and high plasticity, while Clay B presented itself as raw material of less plasticity. The technological tests showed satisfactory results for clays M4 and M5, in accordance with ABNT standards. The control of formulation and temperature served as a basis for proposing adaptations to improve the quality of the final product.