Use of the fine powder of ornamental industry as ceramic raw material

摘要

In the Industrial District of Suape in Pernambuco about 120 m^sup 3^ of abrasion mud is being formed every month. This viscous pulp composed of steel grains, hydrated lime, water and rock powder (about 40% of the mass of the block) is produced during cutting of rock blocks and production of plates. The abrasion mud has remarkable iron content, but it does not peril the mechanical performance of red ceramics produced from that. The waste material of rock cutting and polishing contains fine sand particles from the polishing powder. The grading curve of the clay clearly shows the presence of different size fractions. Thus, the abrasion mud can be added to the clay used for ceramic production. Samples of rock dust did not show plasticity and flow properties. The plasticity required in a mass ceramic can be provided by the use of dark clay of high plasticity. The rational use of particular waste decreases the environmental impact of rock cutting and broadens the spectrum of potential raw materials, as well. [PUBLICATION ABSTRACT]