Physic-chemical characterization of “Namu” clay for industrial use

Abstract

Clay in Namu, Plateau State Nigeria, was characterized physio-chemically to ascertain its use industrially.
From the results, the moisture content (db) of Namu clay was 3.95%, dry clay content 77.15%, pH level of 6.83,
liquid limit 56.47%, plastic limit 23.14%, plasticity index 33.33 %. Other results are cold crushing strength of
385 kg/cm3, loss on ignition 17.64%.The clay changes from brown to golden brown on firing. The linear
shrinkage increases with firing temperature, while there is steady decrease of water absorption with increase
in temperature. Particle size distribution with Plasticity chart for classification showed that the samples are
clays. Comparing with the ‘A-Line’ classification chart which plots Plasticity Index (%) against Liquid Limit (%)
showed that Namu clay can be classified as an inorganic clay with medium to high degree of compressibility.
The results show that the physical properties of the clays are within the specifications for kaolin clays and are
suitable for industrial uses.