DEVELOPMENT OF MASS COMPOSITIONS FOR CERAMIC TILES APPLYING LOGONIC BENTONITE CLAY AS A PLASTICIZING COMPONENT

Background. The problem for enterprises producing ceramic tiles is the search and expansion of the raw material base. An important role is played by the use of available plasticizing components in the development of compositions of ceramic mass, which allows simultaneously reducing the final firing temperature at high temperatures of heat treatment. In this regard, conducting comprehensive studies to establish the possibility of using bentonite clay from the Logon deposit as part of ceramic masses intended for the production of tiles that are characterized by a short heat treatment time at high-speed firing conditions is relevant. Purpose: to study the physicochemical properties of bentonite clay from the Logon deposit and to develop optimal compositions of ceramic masses for facing tiles. Methodology. We used methods of chemical, X-ray phase analysis, DTA, electron microscopy. The physicotechnical parameters of the test samples were carried out according to GOST 6141-91 and Oz’St 82397. Originality. The possibility has been established of entering into the composition of ceramic mass for facing tiles 10–25% of bentonite clay from the Logonsky deposit without reducing its strength and increasing water absorption, which is ensured by sintering and recrystallization with the formation of new minerals of quartz - SiO2, anorthite - CaO∙Al2O3∙2SiO2, spinel - MgAl2O4 and partially albite - Na[AlSi3O8]. Findings. The chemical and mineralogical composition of Logon bentonite clay was determined and its influence on the physicotechnical properties of ceramic tiles was established. It was revealed that the introduction of 20–25% Logon bentonite clay has a positive effect on the course of physicochemical processes at high calcination temperatures, intensification of sintering, and physico-technical indicators of the ceramic crock. Highlights: * the introduction of 20-25% Logon clay increases the physico-mechanical properties; * minerals are formed: quartz - 24-36%, anorthite - 50-63%, spinel - 6-12%.