Analysis Of Properties Of Kaolin Deposits
(A Case Of Studies Of Kpankorogi And Ijero-Ekiti)
An examination of kaolin deposits entails a comprehensive investigation into their mineralogical composition, geological formation, chemical properties, and industrial applications. Kaolin, a type of clay mineral composed primarily of kaolinite, undergoes formation through weathering processes involving feldspar and other aluminum silicates. Its unique properties, including fine particle size, platy morphology, low abrasiveness, and high whiteness, render it valuable in various industries such as ceramics, paper, rubber, paints, and cosmetics. The analysis further delves into factors influencing deposit quality, such as purity, particle size distribution, brightness, and plasticity, which are pivotal for determining suitability for specific applications. Understanding the geological characteristics, extraction techniques, and processing methods are crucial for optimizing the utilization of kaolin deposits and ensuring sustainable resource management while meeting the diverse demands of industrial sectors.
This study considered the mineralogical, elemental composition in form oxides and engineering properties such as particle size, specific gravity, bulk density; water content and atterberg limits of two kaolin deposits in Kpankorogi in Edu Local Government of Kwara State and in Ijero-Ekiti in Ijero-Ekiti Local Government Area, Ekiti State.This is with a view to assessing their potentials for Various industrial applications. The analyses includes X-Ray Diffraction (XRD and X-Ray Fluorescence(XRF). It was observed that the kaolin sample from Kpankorogi is dominated by Quartz and the one from Ijero- ekiti by Orthoclase. The result of the chemical analysis indicates the presences of SiO2, Al2O3, Fe2O¬3, TiO2, MnO, CaO, MgO, K2O, Na2O, CuO, ZmO, Cr2O5, V2O5 and Sc2O3. The X RD In particular, shows that Kpankorogi kaolin contains Quartz and Kaolinite while Ijero- Ekiti contains in addition to kaolinite,s orthoclase and Muscovite. Considering the possible applications of the two kaolin deposits, it was observed they do not meet the required standards completely in all instances.
Title Page
Certification
Dedication
Acknowledgement
Abstract
Table of Content
List of Tables
List of Figures
CHAPTER ONE
1.0 Introduction 1
1.1 Aim and Objectives of the Study 2
1.2 Scope and Limitation of the Study 3
1.3 Research Justification 3
1.4 Problems Statement 3
CHAPTER TWO
2.0 Literature Review 4
2.1 Historical Background of the Study 4
2.2 Properties of Kaolin 5
2.3 Uses of Kaolin 6
CHAPTER THREE
3.0 Materials and Methods 8
3.1 Description of the Study Areas 8
3.2 Method of Samples Collection 8
3.3 Laboratory Analyses 12
3.3.1 Moisture Content 12
3.3.2 Bulk Density Determination 13
3.3.3 Specific Gravity Determination 13
3.3.4 Grain Size Analyses 15
3.3.5 Atterberg Limit 17
3.3.6.1 Liquid Limit 17
3.3.6.2 Plastic Limit 18
3.3.6.3 Shrinkage Limit 19
3.3.7 X.R.D. Analysis 20
3.3.8 X.R.F. Analysis 22
CHAPTER FOUR
4.0 Results And Discussion 23
4.1 Properties of Kpankorogi and Ijere-Ekiti Kaolin Deposits 23
4.2 Water Content Distribution 23
4.2 Bulk Density 24
4.3 Specific Gravity 24
4.4 Atterberg Limits 24
4.5 Sieves Analyses 25
4.1.6 X-ray Diffraction 26
4.6 X-ray Fluorescence 28
CHAPTER FIVE
5.0 Conclusion and Recommendation 31
5.1 Conclusion 31
5.2 Recommendation 31
References 33
Introduction
Kaolin is a clay rock and part of the group of industrial minerals with the chemical composition (Al2Si205 (OH)4.
It is a layered silicate mineral with one tetrahedral sheet linked through oxygen atoms to one octahedral sheet alumina i.e. structurally composed of silicate sheet (Si2O¬5) bonded to aluminum oxide/hydroxide layer Al2 (OH)4 called gibbsite layers and repeating layer of the mineral are hydrogen bonded together. (Rost, 1992; Bish, 1993; Klein and Kuribut, 1993; Slivka, 2002).
Kaolin is a plastic raw material, particular consisting of clay mineral kaolinite. In systematic mineralogy, Kaolin ranks among phyllosilicates, which are stratified clay minerals formed by a network of tetrahedral and octahedral layers. Phyllosillicates are classified into the main groups according to the type of layers, inter-layer contents, charge of the layers and chemical formulas. Besides kaolinite groups, serpentine, halloysite, pyrofylite, mica and montmorillonite groups also ranks among phylllosillicates. Group of kaolinites includes di-octahedral mineral with two layers and one silica (SiO4) tetrahedral layer and one aluminum (Al2(OH)4) octahedral layer. The layers are bondecd together by sharing oxygen anion between Al and Si together, these two layers are called platelets (Pauk,et al.,1962; Stejskal, 1971., Duda et al., and Hurlbut, 1993).
Kaolinite shares the same chemistry as the mineral halloysite, dickeite and necrite. The four minerals are polymorphs as they have the same chemistry but different structures. All the minerals were derived from chemical alteration of aluminum rich silicate minerals, such as feldspars. However, they could be found as sedimentary deposits as well as hydrothermal alteration product of rocks containing a high of alumino-silicate minerals.
Kaolin is formed under acidic conditions through weathering or hydrothermal change of feldspars, and to a lower extent also other weathered kaolin deposits, kaolin clay or may be a compound of kaolinite, sandstones and olitic ironstones, and less frequently also of pegmatite and hydrothermal deposit. The most significant kaolin deposits were formed through intensive weathering of rock rich in feldspars (granite, arkoses, certain types of ortho-gneisses and misgmatites).
Millions years ago, original material was decomposed by weathering, giving rise to kaolin and silica combined with higher or lower amounts of admixtures.(Bernard, el al; 1992).
1.1 Aim and Objectives of the Study
Aim of this study is to determine the suitable industrial application of kaolin from location investigated.
To achieve the above stated aim, the following objective will be carried out:
i. determination of mineralogical composition of the kaolin deposits
ii determination of the chemical/oxide composition of the deposits
iii determination of the physical and engineering properties of the kaolin deposits.
1.2 Scope and Limitation of the Study
The purpose of this project covers two deposits, the Kpankorogi and the Ijero-Ekiti kaolin deposits. Samples were collected from each of the deposits for oxide analyses, mineralogical analyses as well as the determination of the engineering and physical properties. The numbers of samples are limited due to cost constraint. A sample is collected from each of the deposits for both the oxides and mineralogical analyses. This particular study does not include reserve estimation, but this is recommended for future workers.
1.3 Research Justification
Since Kaolin is a widely used industrial material, determination of its chemical composition, mineralogical contents and engineering properties are very important. It will enable the suitable industrial and economic applications of Kaolin.
1.4 Problem Statement
Difficulty where encounter in this project research, during the samples collection. During the collection of samples digging where involved to get the appropriate samples, which is very tedious to dig.
More so, during the analyses of the of engineering properties of the samples in which problems occur by which some engineering properties was not able to carried out which it as been refer for the future work.
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Analysis Of Properties Of Kaolin Deposits:
Kaolin is a valuable mineral that is used in a wide range of industrial applications, including ceramics, paper, paint, rubber, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and more. The properties of kaolin deposits can vary significantly depending on their location and geological origin. Here are some key properties and factors to consider when analyzing kaolin deposits:
- Mineral Composition:
- Kaolin is primarily composed of the mineral kaolinite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4), although other minerals may be present in varying amounts, such as halloysite, dickite, and nacrite.
- Particle Size and Shape:
- Kaolin particles are typically platy or sheet-like in shape. The size of these particles can vary significantly, affecting the kaolin’s suitability for different applications.
- Fine particle size is desirable for paper coating and filling applications, while coarser particles may be preferred for ceramics.
- Brightness and Whiteness:
- Kaolin is known for its high brightness and whiteness, which makes it valuable in applications like paper and paint production.
- The brightness of kaolin is influenced by factors such as mineral impurities and the degree of processing.
- Plasticity:
- Kaolin can exhibit plasticity when mixed with water, making it useful in the ceramics industry. The plasticity is influenced by the mineral composition and particle size.
- Chemical Composition:
- The chemical composition of kaolin deposits can vary, impacting their suitability for specific applications.
- Impurities like iron oxide and titanium dioxide can affect the color and purity of kaolin, making it less suitable for certain applications.
- Thermal Properties:
- Kaolin has good thermal stability, making it suitable for applications that require high-temperature processing, such as ceramics and refractories.
- Porosity and Density:
- Porosity and density of kaolin deposits can affect their absorbency and bulk properties, which are important in applications like papermaking and paints.
- Plasticity Index:
- The plasticity index measures the ability of kaolin to retain water and form a workable clay. It is important in ceramics and construction materials.
- Geology and Location:
- The geological origin of a kaolin deposit can impact its properties. Deposits can form from the weathering of rocks like granite or from hydrothermal processes.
- The location of the deposit affects accessibility, transportation costs, and regional supply dynamics.
- Processing Requirements:
- Kaolin deposits often require processing to remove impurities and optimize their properties for specific applications. This can include beneficiation, drying, and particle size reduction.
- Market Demand:
- The properties of kaolin must align with market demands. Different industries and applications may require kaolin with specific characteristics.
- Environmental Considerations:
- Kaolin mining and processing can have environmental impacts, such as habitat disruption and water pollution. Sustainable practices and environmental regulations should be considered.
In summary, the analysis of kaolin deposits involves assessing a range of properties, including mineral composition, particle size, brightness, plasticity, chemical composition, thermal properties, and more. Understanding these properties is crucial for determining the suitability of a kaolin deposit for specific industrial applications and for optimizing processing methods.