Characterization And Evaluation of Selected Kaolin Deposits in Kwara State for Furnace Lining Application
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63747/jeis.v1i2.44Keywords:
Furnace Lining, Kaolin, XRD, XRF, Refractory, Kwara StateAbstract
This study evaluates the mineralogical and chemical characteristics of kaolin deposits from five sites in Kwara State, Nigeria—Harmony, Kpandagari, Kutukpa, Share, and Gbaduwa for suitability in furnace lining applications. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyses were employed for mineralogical and chemical composition, the physical properties tests and linear shrinkage were conducted. Results showed kaolinite and quartz as dominant phases, with varying concentrations of feldspars and iron oxides. The Kutukpa site has the highest bulk density of 1.65 g/cm³, making it suitable for dense refractory linings with dense kaolinite structures. The Harmony site has low apparent porosity for furnace linings, while Kpandagari site has high apparent porosity (276%) for thermal shock resistance. The specific gravity of Kpandagari site correlates with quartz content, while Kutukpa site provides a specific gravity of 2.5. Low water absorption indicates minimal impurities in Kutukpa site which may need for surface treatments. Share sites have minimal shrinkage, supporting stable high-temperature performance in environments requiring stable performance. The findings support local sourcing of kaolin for thermal insulation in industrial applications.
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