Influence of firing temperature on the ceramic properties of clays from Campos dos Goytacazes, Brazil

The characteristics of two clays used for red ceramic production in Campos dos Goytacazes, southeast of Brazil, were investigated. Characterization was performed by X-ray diffraction, chemical analysis, as well as granulometric and plasticity measurements. Technological properties related to water absorption, linear shrinkage and flexural strength were obtained from specific tests. Samples were prepared by pressing clay bodies at 20 MPa, which were then fired at temperatures from 850 to 1200 °C. The results showed that both clays from three deposits are highly plastic due to the elevated percentage of kaolinitic clay minerals. The samples richer in clay minerals present higher linear shrinkage as well as a decrease in water absorption in comparison to the others. The effectiveness of these clays for red ceramic production has been discussed in terms of the Winkler diagram.