Clay Materials Research Articles

Effects of nano-clay on the geotechnical properties of gypseous soil

Abstract Gypseous soils suffer from sudden settlement when subjected to water flow due to dissolving of gypsum salts, so all structures constructed on gypseous soil undergo significant deformations due to the soil’s ability to collapse. Around the world, specifically in the arid and semi-arid regions gypseous soils are mostly found also, and can be found in the west desert of Iraq and even in the southern regions, amounting about between 30 and 35% of the country’s total area. There are several techniques to improve the geotechnical properties of collapsible soils, but one of the most recent techniques is using the nano technology. Five different proportions of nano-clay (NC) were incorporated into a gypseous soil containing 80% gypsum in order to enhance its chemical and geotechnical characteristics (1, 2, 3, 4, and 5%). The tests findings (chemical, physical, and mechanical tests) demonstrated that the addition of nano-clay to gypseous soil has a significant impact on the geotechnical properties of soil where it leads to decrease the gypsum content of soil, pH value, maximium dry density, specific gravity, and collapse index. On the other hand, the utilized of nano clay material causes to increase shear strength parameters (c and φ), optimum water content and liquid limit. Adding 4% of nano-clay results in a significant decrease of 53% in the collapse index and an increase of 311% in soil cohesion and 30% in the angle of internal friction.

Localization of Iodine and Uranyl Carbonate Complex on Metal-Containing Clay Materials from Aqueous Media

Localization of Iodine and Uranyl Carbonate Complex on Metal-Containing Clay Materials from Aqueous Media

Development of Point of Use Household Water Purification SystemUsing Locally Sourced Clay Material

Access to clean and safe drinking water remains a critical challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. This study focused on the development of a point-of-use household water purification system utilizing locally sourced clay material. The clay, collected from Imiegba in Edo State, Nigeria, was molded into ceramic filters and fired to create a porous structure essential for filtration. The system's effectiveness was evaluated by testing water from the Omouku River before and after filtration, with analyses conducted for physicochemical parameters, heavy metals, and microbial contaminants. Results indicated significant improvements in water quality, including the complete elimination of heterotrophic bacteria and reductions in heavy metal concentrations. The study underscores the potential of locally available materials in providing a sustainable and affordable solution for improving access to safe drinking water in regions with limited resources. Recommendations include regular monitoring, community education, and further research to optimize the filtration system's performance.

Energy- efficient cementitious mortar containing clay based shape-stable phase change material: Development, characterization and temperature controlling performance

The need for buildings to ensure a comfortable thermal environment is increasing, leading to a surge in energy consumption. This study proposes an innovative approach to tackle thermal energy storage challenges in buildings by formulating a unique cementitious mortar containing a shape-stable composite of Saudi Arabian natural clay and methyl stearate phase change material (PCM). The inclusion of natural clay, chosen for its cost-effectiveness and eco-friendliness, addresses the issue of methyl stearate leakage—a common concern with PCM usage. Despite PCM incorporation, the mixture maintains desirable fluidity and consistency, albeit with a slightly reduced dry unit weight and compressive strength. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis defines key characteristics of the resulting shape-stable NC/MS composite PCM, including a melting point of 33.81°C and a latent heat storage capacity of 56.15 J/g. Empirical testing demonstrates the efficacy of the natural clay/PCM composite in temperature moderation. During periods of elevated external temperatures, the NC/PCM specimen effectively lowers room-center temperatures by up to 4°C and sustains a cooler environment compared to the control room for almost 8 hours. Additionally, the composite PCM limits the maximum increase in room center temperature post-sunset to only 2.49°C, showcasing its capability in stabilizing indoor temperatures. This innovative PCM composite responds dynamically to ambient temperature variations, transitioning between solid and liquid states to release stored latent heat, consequently reducing building heating and cooling loads, enhancing energy efficiency. The natural clay/PCM composite presents a promising solution for advancing building thermal energy storage systems, aligning with energy efficiency and sustainable design objectives.

Anti-swelling 2D clay nanofiltration with interlamellar fixation for efficient dye separation

Clay-based 2D nanofiltrations (NFs) have shown great potentials in wastewater treatment owing to their facile scale-up and low-cost feature. However, the swelling effect seriously limits their separation efficient towards the construction of high-performance NFs. Herein, an anti-swelling clay-based 2D NF is developed based on the strategy of electrostatic interlamellar fixation. The intercalation of positively-charged Fe(OH)3 nanoparticles could effectively fix the interlayer spacing of negatively-charged montmorillonite-based 2D NF, contributing to a high dye (Congo red) retention rate up to 99.78 % and also a satisfactory flux of 60.65 L m−2 h−1 bar−1. Separation mechanism was explored for the combined effects of size, electrostatic potential and conjugation on the retention rate. When scaling up (∼700 cm2), the anti-swelling 2D NF still maintain an excellent separation effect that is superior to almost all reported state-of-the-art 2D NFs. According to the detailed life cycle assessments (LCA), the advantages of MMT in the production process were demonstrated. The utilization of 2D clay material also exhibits superior resource, environmental and techno-economic benefits compared to other mainstream 2D materials. This work proposes an effective strategy to solve the swelling effect of clay-based 2D NFs towards the large-scale utilization of high-performance and low-cost separation membrane for efficient wastewater treatment.

Raw clay material-based modified carbon paste electrodes for sensitive heavy metal detection in drinking water

A new electrode based on carbon paste (CP) modified with natural clay was used for heavy metals detection. The investigation of the raw clay material (X-ray diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, thermal analysis and particle size distribution) revealed different morpho-structural properties of the natural material. The electrochemical behaviour of the modified carbon paste electrode and its ability to detect heavy metals (Zn2+, Cd2+, and Cu2+) was studied by different electrochemical techniques like cyclic voltammetry (CV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV). Both electrochemical and analytical parameters of the investigated modified electrode recommend them as stable, sensitive and reproducible sensors for individual heavy metals detection.

Artificial lightweight aggregate made from alternative and waste raw materials, hardened using the hybrid method

Lightweight aggregates are a material used in many industries. A huge amount of this material is used in construction and architecture. For the most part, lightweight construction aggregates are obtained from natural resources such as clay raw materials that have the ability to swell at high temperatures. Resources of these clays are limited and not available everywhere. Therefore, opportunities are being sought to produce lightweight artificial aggregates that have interesting performance characteristics due to their properties. For example, special preparation techniques can reduce or increase the water absorption of such an aggregate depending on the needs and application. The production of artificial lightweight aggregate using various types of waste materials is environmentally friendly as it reduces the depletion of natural resources. Therefore, this article proposes a method of obtaining artificial lightweight aggregate consolidated using two methods: drum and dynamic granulation. Hardening was achieved using combined methods: sintering and hydration, trying to maintain the highest possible porosity. Waste materials were used, such as dust from construction rubble and residues from the processing of PET bottles, as well as clay from the Bełchatów mine as a raw material accompanying the lignite overburden. High open porosity of the aggregates was achieved, above 30%, low apparent density of 1.23 g/cm3, low leachability of approximately 250 µS. The produced lightweight aggregates could ultimately be used in green roofs.

Engineering geological and geotechnical evaluation of Sathya Sai Prasanthi Nilayam railway tunnel, Andhra Pradesh, India

Detailed engineering geological investigations were carried out for a railway tunnel which was constructed more than two decades ago. 3D engineering geological mapping was carried out using Brunton Compass and Total Station Surveying instruments in 1:100 scale. Coarse-grained pink and grey granite, hornblende-biotite gneiss and dolerite dyke of Archaean age and Lower Proterozoic age were mapped. Rock mass was intersected by sub-horizontal, inclined, and vertical joint sets, which were continuous and persistent, smooth, and planar with thick filling of decomposed and crushed sheared material or with thin coating of clay material. Based on the Q-system, rock mass was classified into different classes. On the basis of large-scale engineering geological mapping and Norwegian Method of Tunnelling, a support system was recommended which includes rock bolt, fibre reinforced shotcrete, grouting and reinforced ribs of sprayed concrete and the same is implemented by the agency. As per the best knowledge of the authors, reinforced ribs of sprayed concrete are first time used for transportation tunnels in India and it will be more effective if it will be compared with ISMB or Lattice Girder.

Recycling Clay Waste from Excavation, Demolition, and Construction: Trends and Challenges

The recycling of clay waste from construction debris highly depends on the chemical and mineralogical composition of the waste. Clays and clay minerals are known to be among marginal construction waste, representing an interesting opportunity and platform to produce other low-cost and low-carbon materials due to their possibilities for functional material design, such as adsorbents, drug delivery, catalysts and photocatalysts, and nanocomposites. The present review analyzes a wide variety of mechanisms for encapsulating organic and inorganic species between the layers of clay minerals. Through the compilation of advances in acid activation, exchange of inorganic cations, intercalation, and pillarization, new applications for clay materials are generated, paving the way to a nanometric world with functional, magnetic, adsorption, and catalytic capabilities. New trends are consolidated in the reuse of recycled clays in infrastructure projects, such as hydraulic concrete, water purification, soil fertility, pigments and paints, food packaging and storage, and ceramic appliances. It is concluded that clay waste is suitable to reuse in many industrial products and construction materials, enabling a reduction in the consumption of raw materials.

Physical and mechanical properties of adobe bricks reinforced by natural additives, a case study of alfalfa fibers

The primary objective of this study is to determine the impact of alfalfa fiber on the physicomechanical properties of adobe bricks. The soil and fibers utilized in this research as raw materials were obtained from Ouled Mbarek, a village located in the north-central region of Morocco. Comprehensive tests were conducted on the raw materials for characterization, including mineralogical examination, geotechnical assessment, and microstructural analysis. The adobe samples underwent thorough examination, with a focus on damage, fracture behavior and fire resistance. The inclusion of alfalfa fiber, containing hydrophilic compounds such as quasi-crystalline cellulose and hemicelluloses, resulted in increased water absorption and significant porosity due to air entrapment during mixing. Furthermore, the introduction of small amounts of alfalfa fiber led to an enhancement in the mechanical properties of the adobes, showcasing noTable compressive and flexural strength reaching 8.28 MPa and 1.83 MPa, respectively. This improvement was attributed to the strong adhesion between the added fibers and the clay matrix, significantly reducing crack propagation within the composite material. The high tensile strength of alfalfa fibers, stemming from their cellulose content, also played a crucial role in the improved mechanical performance. Consequently, adobes reinforced with such fibers exhibit promising characteristics as cost-effective construction materials in arid and semi-arid regions

Development of lightweight structural concrete with artificial aggregate manufactured from local clay and solid waste materials

The partial replacement of conventional natural coarse aggregate (NCA) with artificial light weight aggregate (LWA) manufactured from local clay and solid waste to develop a lightweight aggregate concrete (LWAC) for the structural use was studied in this paper. Red clay and Savar clay were used individually with solid wastes like rice husk ash (RHA) and waste glass to produce LWA. The suitability of raw materials and LWA was evaluated by investigating various properties. The mechanical, thermal and durability properties of manufactured LWAC were explored. The results of physical, chemical, thermal and geotechnical properties revealed that Red clay is better than Savar clay for the preparation of LWA. All the physical and mechanical properties of LWA prepared from Red clay are suitable for the preparation of LWAC compared to Savar clay. The test results demonstrated that the concrete manufactured by replacing 30 % of NCA with LWA produced a concrete of lightweight properties. The compressive strength of LWAC for 7 and 28 days was observed as 28 and 48 MPa, respectively. The results of modulus of elasticity, splitting tensile strength, flexural deformation, and creep test of LWAC revealed that these mechanical properties meet the requirements for the structural concrete. The RCP test proves that chlorine permeability of LWAC is comparable with NCA. It was observed that the superior performance of LWAC can be achieved only when the optimized mix designed is followed strictly. The suitability of the replacement of natural aggregate by LWA may be helpful for Bangladesh due to the scarcity of natural coarse aggregate and reusability of solid waste materials.

Laboratory testing of desiccation crack growth in terrestrial Martian analog environments using digital image correlation

The unique geologic features of raised ridges and polygonal cracks filled with multiple layers of cement observed in Gale and Jezero craters on Mars have origins that remain uncertain due to limited knowledge and measurement techniques. This study hypothesizes that these cracks result from the volumetric shrinkage of clay fabric due to dehydration and salinity fluctuations in ancient Martian lakes. The research aims to quantify the shrinkage of terrestrial simulants with varying mineral compositions analogous to those found at Gale Crater and Jezero Crater under diverse desiccation conditions. By simulating Martian regolith using the Rocknest soil simulant and examining historical aqueous conditions through sedimentary rock analogs, this study provides new insights into Martian geological structures. The extent and rate of shrinkage in simulant samples were quantified using ImageJ, while strain localization and propagation were measured using the Digital Image Correlation (DIC) technique until full desiccation crack patterns developed. Laboratory testing revealed that desiccation cracks tend to form polygonal patterns, which are patently similar to the polygonal patterns observed in some regions of Mars. However, not all simulants produced visible cracks, with some producing linear rather than polygonal patterns. Key findings indicate that higher temperatures result in wider and deeper cracks, while lower temperatures decrease crack density and length. Increased initial water content leads to more extensive cracking, with higher crack density and length per unit area. Sodium chloride and sodium sulfate significantly impact desiccation cracking, with low concentrations stabilizing the soil and high concentrations promoting extensive cracking. Smectite-rich samples exhibit extensive cracking, and tensile strain distribution during evaporation is non-uniform, influencing crack development based on sample properties and drying conditions. These insights enhance our understanding of polygonal crack formation on Mars, improving Mars sample return missions and informing the design of robust exploration equipment.

Investigation of Desiccation Cracking Behavior of Waste Carbon Fiber–Reinforced Clay Material

Carbon fiber is a common waste building material, but its effect on the drying and cracking properties of clay materials is unknown. In this paper, crack rate and fractal dimension are used to characterize the influence of waste carbon fiber materials on the development of soil cracking. With the rise in carbon fiber content to 0.2%, 0.4% and 0.6%, the crack rate of soil cracking decreased by 7.9%, 17.3% and 23.3%, respectively, while the fractal dimension of soil cracking decreased by 2.4%, 8.7% and 21.2%, respectively. Accordingly, the critical moisture content of the soil samples increased by 33.2%, 110% and 151%, and the time of the soil constant evaporation stage decreased by 5.1%, 13.8% and 34.5%, respectively. When carbon fiber is combined with soil, carbon fiber will increase the interface bonding strength, friction and interlocking force, effectively inhibiting the cracking of soil, and it provides a channel for water transport in the soil in the early stage.

Thermal insulation and X-ray attenuation properties of fired clay-perlite composites

In this work, the expanded perlite (EP) was used as an additive in local Hang Dong (HDC) and San Kham Phang (SPC) clays from Chiang Mai province, Thailand, for wall tile manufacturing and its influence on various properties were investigated. All samples were fabricated by drying and sintering the mixtures at 1100 °C for 8 h. Fired bulk density, shrinkage, water absorption and modulus of rupture were measured. With increasing perlite content, the density showed a decreasing trend (2.16–1.62 g/cm3 for HDC clay and 2.13 to 1.37 g/cm3 for SPC clay) with the corresponding reduction in the modulus of rupture. Both types of clays showed higher water absorbability when more perlite was added, indicating the hygroscopic properties of porous perlite particles. Phase and chemical composition indicated the uniform distribution of pea-pod-like perlite structure in clay matrix with strong interfacial bonding due to chemical reaction between perlite additive and clay matrix. X-ray attenuation coefficient was found to decrease in correspondence with the decreasing trend in density values. The thermal conductivity of perlite-added Hang Dong clay exhibited at least 10 times reduction compared to pure clay, suggesting the excellent insulation behavior. The HDC with 100 and 200 cm3 perlite showed good performance in terms of rupture strength, water absorbability, X-ray attenuation with additional insulation properties. Based on this perlite-clay composite study, the sample could be further optimized for its X-ray shielding application by infiltration with elemental or alloy particles.

Petrographic insight into the sourcing and production of pre‐colonial Ceramics from Aruba

AbstractThis research presents the findings of a petrographic analysis conducted on pre‐colonial Ceramics from Aruba, focusing on understanding ceramic mineral resources and production. The study compared ceramics from nine sites with a selection of clay sources from the island. Petrographic analysis identified the existence of three different mineralogical compositions. Two groups of undecorated vessels were likely manufactured using locally sourced clay materials. Group 1 ceramics show a connection with the weathering of quartz‐diorite intrusions in the northwest part of the island and suggest the exploitation of multiple, geographically close sources with similar compositions. Group 2 ceramics are related to clay sources found in the southeast of Aruba, with a mixed geological composition, including limestone, volcanic tuff and quartz‐diorite. In contrast, Group 3 ceramics are mostly decorated and belong to the Early Urumaco Period. They display a distinct composition characterized by a calcareous matrix with clay pellets, clay streaks and the presence of shell fragments added as temper. The extensive clay preparation practice leaves uncertainties concerning the origin of ceramics from Group 3. The study also highlights clay selection and use patterns, indicating that different clay sources were interchangeably utilized by communities across Aruba.

A Preliminary Study: Physicochemical Characteristics and the Recommendations for Industrial Application of the Mlaten Clay Materials, Mojokerto, East Java, Indonesia

Abstract Clays are industrial minerals that are widely utilized for various industrial fields. Eastern Java has a high potential of clay minerals (±348 million tons), including Mojokerto. The research location is in Mlaten and its surroundings, Mojokerto, East Java and covers an area of ± 16 km2. The massive utilization and potential in this area has not been comprehensively followed by research and exploration of clay minerals. In this case, the potential of clay minerals needs to be investigated so that prospective locations can be determined along with recommendations for optimal utilization. To determine the physical properties, which are plasticity test, grain size test, and forming water test, were conducted on 3 samples of raw clay and 1 sample of industrial clay. Furthermore, the geochemical analysis is to determine the major oxide compounds and was conducted on 8 raw clay samples. The lithology units of the study area can be divided into 2 units, consisting of sand-clay unit and weathered upper Quaternary volcanic unit. The Mlaten clay deposits are found in both units. Physical characteristics of clay in Mlaten are consisting of 2,34% - 2,47% clay grain size and having of moderate to high plasticity. The recommendation for forming water in clay utilization ranges from 15-43%. On the other side, Mlaten clay is geochemically characterized by high content of SiO2 (50-59,6%), Fe2O3 (7,24-10,15%), and Al2O3 (16,9-19,9%), but low content of K2O (0,63-1,04%), Na2O (1,44-2,49%), MgO (1,04-1,96%), and CaO (2,42-4,87%). Based on the physicochemical characteristics, Mlaten clay are recommended as raw materials for the manufacture of earthenware ceramic industry, cement industry, and as absorbents in the palm oil industry.

The history of the development of 3D printing technologies and their use in world artistic ceramics

The article is devoted to the study of the history of the emergence and development of additive technologies in world artistic ceramics. The article analyzes information on the history of the emergence of additive technologies. The principle of operation of 3D printing equipment, features of its use, the most common areas of use and materials used in 3D printing have been considered. An analysis of the specifics of the technical characteristics of 3D printers and technologies for 3D printing with ceramic masses has been shown that the use of ceramic materials as raw materials for 3D printing is a progressive trend due to the emergence of the possibility of forming ceramic objects and products that are practically indestructible reproduction and replication using traditional methods. In this article, the authors have been analyzed the advantages and disadvantages of manufacturing ceramic products by 3D printing. It has been established that the main difference between the production of three-dimensional plastic or metal elements and ceramic elements is the main feature of the ceramic manufacturing technology, namely that the printout is not a ceramic product before firing in the oven, that is, without firing, it is simply an element printed from clay materials (that is, such a printout before firing is called the "green part" – an unprocessed element). Currently, there are no 3D printers that can immediately produce ready-made ceramic products, all elements printed from ceramic materials require drying and firing. But, despite this nuance, printers that print with clay materials are called ceramic 3D printers. As 3D printing can accurately realize the creative thinking of artists and designers, 3D printing technology is increasingly used in the creation of ceramic products and contemporary ceramic works. The authors of the article emphasize that three-dimensional printing with clay provides ceramists with completely new opportunities for creating ceramic products with a complex configuration, texture, etc. Ceramic artists from all over the world are already actively using this technology in their work. Therefore, part of the study is devoted to examples of the use of 3D printing technology in world artistic ceramics, as well as to the description and analysis of the most interesting achievements in this direction of creativity, according to the authors.

The history of the development of 3D printing technologies and their use in world artistic ceramics

The article is devoted to the study of the history of the emergence and development of additive technologies in world artistic ceramics. The article analyzes information on the history of the emergence of additive technologies. The principle of operation of 3D printing equipment, features of its use, the most common areas of use and materials used in 3D printing have been considered. An analysis of the specifics of the technical characteristics of 3D printers and technologies for 3D printing with ceramic masses has been shown that the use of ceramic materials as raw materials for 3D printing is a progressive trend due to the emergence of the possibility of forming ceramic objects and products that are practically indestructible reproduction and replication using traditional methods. In this article, the authors have been analyzed the advantages and disadvantages of manufacturing ceramic products by 3D printing. It has been established that the main difference between the production of three-dimensional plastic or metal elements and ceramic elements is the main feature of the ceramic manufacturing technology, namely that the printout is not a ceramic product before firing in the oven, that is, without firing, it is simply an element printed from clay materials (that is, such a printout before firing is called the "green part" – an unprocessed element). Currently, there are no 3D printers that can immediately produce ready-made ceramic products, all elements printed from ceramic materials require drying and firing. But, despite this nuance, printers that print with clay materials are called ceramic 3D printers. As 3D printing can accurately realize the creative thinking of artists and designers, 3D printing technology is increasingly used in the creation of ceramic products and contemporary ceramic works. The authors of the article emphasize that three-dimensional printing with clay provides ceramists with completely new opportunities for creating ceramic products with a complex configuration, texture, etc. Ceramic artists from all over the world are already actively using this technology in their work. Therefore, part of the study is devoted to examples of the use of 3D printing technology in world artistic ceramics, as well as to the description and analysis of the most interesting achievements in this direction of creativity, according to the authors.

Revitalization Of Balango: Local Ceramic Art and Products from Galogandang Luhak Nan Tuo, West Sumatra

Balango, a traditional pottery used as a cooking utensil in Minangkabau villages, has been transformed as an interior aesthetic support or aesthetic element, so that balango becomes more dynamic and has prospects as an art commodity. This research aims to examine the revitalization of pottery at Galogandang Pottery Hall in Luhan Nan Tuo, West Sumatra. This research uses a mixed method as a reference strategy for developing the potential of clay for the application of local pottery crafts in a sustainable manner through a creative approach supported by laboratory tests. Balango at Galogandang Pottery Hall, there is a development of local art product designs in the form of flower vases; pendil teapots, and kadhai whose clay raw materials are formulated from three types of soil with a clay fraction of 23% (sandy loam clay); kaolinite (21%), illite (41%), and quartz (38) minerals; oxide composition dominated by SiO2 (37%) and Fe2O3 (35%); burn shrinkage (19%); specific gravity (1.75 g cm-3), porosity (26.60%) and compressive strength (225.48 kg cm-2). This composition can be used to customize new ideas for other products by combining different forms (figurative and abstract), resulting in visually beautiful and functional utilitarian pottery for interiors with artistic quality and local flavor.

Derivation of Glaze from Cathode Ray Tubes (CRTs) for Ceramic Wares

Introduction of digital display makes cathode ray tube to be largely obsolete. The tube with its screen becomes waste at the end of the products lifecycle. This study, which combined laboratory experimentation and studio practices, aimed at production of glass glaze with cathode ray tube screen. Cathode ray tubes of four different colours were used for the study. The tubes were washed, pulverized and sieved according to their colour, elementally analysed using Particle Induce X-ray Emission, and milled into two batches per colour with first batch mixed with ball clay and second batch mixed with ball clay and additive chemical material of borax. The glaze batches were applied on eight bisque-fired tiles and fired at 1100 0C. The glazes yielded greenish grey, greyish purple, transparent grey and dark grey. This is significance towards the diversification of Nigeria’s economy for solving solid waste disposal challenges for a better and safe environment. The study has proven that cathode ray tubes with addition of borax and ball clay are suitable for glaze production and provided elemental information to guide the glaze formulation.