Thermal transformations of red wall tile pastes

Abstract

This work focuses on the thermal and mineralogical transformations of red wall tile pastes. The pastes contain different amounts of calcareous and are prepared with Brazilian raw materials. Thermal transformations are evaluated by TG, DTG and DTA, dilatometric analysis, and X-ray diffraction. Four endothermic transformations were identified and interpreted as the release of physically adsorbed water, dehydration of hydroxides, dehydroxylation of kaolinite, and decomposition of carbonate. An exothermic transformation within the 925–950°C range is associated to crystallization of new phases such as calcium aluminosilicates and mullite. TG measurements indicate that the total mass loss of the pastes is dependent on the amount of calcareous addition. Dilatometric analysis indicates the onset of sintering at around 900°C, leading to shrinkage of the pellets. The thermal analysis results agree well with the X-ray diffraction.