Abstract
Geophagy is common in Cape Verde, mainly to prevent or reduce digestive problems. The aim of this study is to understand if clays from three different islands of Cape Verde archipelago (Santiago, Boavista e Fogo) have suitable properties for geophagy. For that, seven samples (one from Santiago, four from Boavista and two from Fogo) were tested in terms of mineralogy, chemistry and physical properties. Performed tests were as follows: X-ray diffraction and fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy, cation exchange capacity, cooling kinetics, Atterberg limits, viscosity, expandability, pH, abrasivity, specific surface area, thermogravimetric analysis, specific heat and oil absorption. Santiago sample is pure smectite, while Fogo and Boavista samples show high proportions of phyllosilicates (mainly illite-smectite with some kaolinite) and iron oxides. This mineralogical composition explains why Santiago shows higher values for major properties, such as expandability, plasticity and cation exchange capacity. Boavista and Fogo samples show similar chemical composition, whereas Santiago revealed higher percentages of Fe, Ti and Mg. All studied samples have the potential to be applied in geophagy, Santiago sample being the most appropriate one.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
