Evaluation of Chemical and Physico-Mechanical Properties of some Nigeria Natural Clays Samples for Foundry Applications
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Date
2018-09
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Faculty of Engineering, Federal University, Oye, Nigeria
Abstract
Studies have shown that Nigerian clays have not been fully utilized for foundry applications, either as refractories or even
bonding clays, and are still being imported into the country. There is need to effectively exploit and adequately utilize the available natural
resources to improve Nigeria economic activities, most especially during the present economic recession. Samples of clays were obtained
from Auchi, Dada-Okelele (Ilorin), Kaba, Maraba-Rido, Mokwa and New-Bussa in Nigeria. The samples’ physico-mechanical properties
were examined for its suitability for foundry/refractory applications. The results of the chemical analysis revealed that the samples belong to
Alumino-Silicate refractories. The samples exhibited 35.3-96.2%, 17.1-28.7%, 1.72-2.34 g/cm3, 2.2-10.1%, 73-86 and >1300oC as values
for percentage clay contents, apparent porosity, bulk density, permeability, linear shrinkage and refractoriness respectively. These values
were within the standard range values of >35%, 22-30%, 17-2.4%, 2.0-10.1% and 25-90 required as percentage clay contents, apparent
porosity, bulk density, permeability and linear shrinkage values respectively, for refractory clays/brick lining or alumina-silicates, kaolin and
fireclays. Hence, the clays could suitably replace imported clays / ceramics in refractory applications, such as in production of earthen
wares, chalk; as insulating refractories for casting and melting of low and medium temperature iron and steel. Appropriate utilization of
these clays for local foundry applications will assist in addressing the problem of inadequate job, and over dependence on foreign goods.
Description
Application of available natural clays for foundry applications to enhance Nigeria industrial development
Keywords
Alumino-Silicate, Clay, Foundry, Moisture, Refractoriness
Citation
10. Shuaib-Babata, Y.L. & Abdulrahaman, N. A.. (2018). Evaluation of chemical and physico-mechanical properties of some Nigeria natural clays samples for foundry applications. FUOYE Journal of Engineering and Technology. 3 (2); 77-82