Effect of addition of Avanos’s (Nevsehir) clays on the physical and microstructure properties of ceramic tile

Abstract

Requirements of natural raw materials for construction and ceramic coating materials which basically used claysilica-feldspar system are increasing every day. In this study, two different clays (white and Ayhanlar clays) from the north east of Nevsehir (Turkey) in Avanos were examined for ceramic wall tile compositions. These clays were added in specific proportions instead of different clays to the ceramic wall tile compositions. Then physical (chromatic coordinates, water absorption, linear shrinkage, thermal expansion coefficient) and mechanical properties were investigated in comparison with an industrial standard tile. Phase and microstructure development of samples were examined by X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy. The Anorthite formation using Avanos’s clays was quite successful in sintered samples. This study is important work both alternative clay material for Turkish ceramic tile industry in terms of feature of usage of these white and red clays and broaden usage areas and exhibition of Avanos’s clays.