A calcareous clay from Tamesloht (Al Haouz, Morocco): Properties and thermal transformations

The thermal transformations of a calcareous clay were investigated at 800–1000 °C by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The shrinkage and water absorption values were measured. The sintering process became effective > 900 °C, and only plagioclase as crystalline phase was formed. This limited neoformation was in agreement with the CaO–SiO2–Al2O3 equilibrium diagram. Based on the Atterberg limits, the drying parameters, and the water permeability of the ceramic samples, the clay was considered suitable for manufacturing irrigation pitchers.