CARACTERIZAÇÃO MICROESTRUTURAL E PROPRIEDADES FÍSICAS E MECÂNICAS DE ARGILAS DA REGIÃO NORTE DO ESPÍRITO SANTO

Abstract

This work aimed to determine mineralogical, physical and mechanical properties of clays from the north of Espirito Santo. Two clays as received (samples A and B) and two traces (2A-5B – sample C; and 3A-4B – sample D) sere analyzed. X rays fluorescence, scanning electronic microscopy, X rays diffraction, granulometric analysis, differential thermal analysis, thermogravimetric analysis and Atterberg limits were used to determine the mineralogical properties of samples. Water absorption, apparent porosity, apparent specific gravity, linear retraction after firing and ultimate compressive strength were also evaluated using specimens with diameter of 12 mm and height of 24 mm, made by uniaxial pressing, dried at 110°C for 24 h and fired at 850°C, 900°C and 950°C, with 5°C/min and staying at those temperatures for 2 h. Mineralogical properties results for samples A and B presented in accordance to literature. Physical and mechanical properties results pointed to the choice of sample D to use as raw material to make bricks.