Evaluating the Geotechnical Properties of the Fatha Formation Clays in Al-Anbar Governorate, Western Iraq for Ceramic Industries

Abstract

This research aims to study of geotechnical for clays of the Fatha formation which are exposed in western Iraq, Al-Anbar Governorate to industries of ceramic by comparing the Physical , chemical, engineering results with the standard specifications. many mixtures and four burning temperature were used to show the best mixture and burning temperature that lead to results close to standards specifications. the physical examinations results range between , Linear shrinkage -1.1–2.8, Apparent porosity 12–37.1, efflorescence (small to nil), compressive strength 10.6 – 39.) nt./mm2. The results of engineering examinations (Atterberg limit) shows that clays of study area can be form and take on a plasticity suitable for ceramic industries . The chemical analysis for clays of study area showed that the main oxides are range between , SiO2 44.27–48.07%, Al2O3 11.25–14.99 %, CaO 6.33–8.56 %, Fe2O3 6.48–9.57%, TiO2 0.61–0.88 %, K2O 2.55–3.48%, Na2O 0.48–7.08%, SO3 0.13–10.66% and Cl 0.03–4.17%. The best temperature of burning is 950 .