Mineralogy and physico-chemical properties of alluvial clays from Sanaga valley (Center, Cameroon): Suitability for ceramic application

Alluvial clays from four localities along the Sanaga River (Center Cameroon) were studied by physico-chemical, mineralogical and technological characterization in order to assess their suitability as ceramic raw materials. The chemical compositions indicated that SiO2 (65–70%) and Al2O3 (12–15%) are major elements while Fe2O3 is less (4–7%). Kaolinite, quartz and feldspar are the main minerals. Particle size distribution and chemical composition are indicative of “plastic red clays” belonging to heavy sandy clays group. Their medium to high plasticity is suitable for fired earth and fine ceramics products. Pressed samples were fired at temperatures ranging between 900 and 1100 °C for coarse ceramic products. Linear shrinkage, flexural strength and water absorption indicated that the clays from one site (Mbandjock) are good for brick making. Clays from the three other localities present poor technological properties (higher shrinkage and cracks), they need degreasers before use as ceramic raw materials. Although water absorption and flexural strength parameters are good for all the studied samples, firing shrinkage needs to be improved.