Abstract

Physicochemical And Geotechnical Characterization And Application Of Berriasian Clays Of Djebel Oust (North Of Tunisia)

Author(s): Salah Mahmoudi, Ezzeddine Srasra and Fouad Zargouni

The study of Djebel Oust Berriasian clays shows an abundance of illite (66%), the presence of kaolinite (16%), a fair amount of interstratified illite/smectite (10%) and chlorite (8%). The geochemical analysis proves that these clays are siliceous, Ca-rich and aluminous. The iron rate is 4.7%. The geotechnical study indicates that these clays are little to fairly plastic, and adapt fast to drying. Also, the study shows that firing shrinkage is little. In the light of these results, these clays could be used in manufacturing of the ceramic pieces. ï›™ 2006 Trade Science Inc. - INDIA