Abstract
Purpose: This research work investigated the use of graphite as material for production of crucibles by using clay slip casting method.
 Methodology: The graphite used was sourced from a graphite deposit located at Sama Borkno in Warji Local Government Area of Bauchi state. Clay, kaolin, fireclay silica, lime were used to bind the materials together and to make the slip more plastics and to strengthen the crucible. The investigation covered the assessment of chemical compositions of the graphite sample obtained, processing of the graphite obtained into crucible, determination of physical properties of crucible such as shrinkage, porosity, refractoriness, shock resistance and heat conductivity by ASTM standard methods.
 Findings: The result of the chemical analysis for the graphite sample showed that the beneficiated graphite has enough percentage of carbon content suitable for crucible production. The shrinkage tests conducted on the samples showed percentage shrinkage of the sample ranges from 2-17 %. The results of the thermal shock tests showed that all the samples can withstand sudden change in temperature when exposed to different temperatures. The refractoriness test for the sample showed that all the samples can withstand temperatures above 12000C. Conductivity test showed good heat conductance of the samples. After the tests, it was found that sample “B” possess all the requirements required for graphite crucible production. The Crucible was produced by slip casting forming method of ceramic bodies. The crucible produced was tested by melting a brass.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommends that government should encourage the full time mining of indigenous graphite by providing a conducive atmosphere and assistance to miners. Some additives such as grog should also be added to the samples mixtures so as to improve the properties.
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