Local clay prospects to be used in metallurgical practice

Abstract

The purpose of the paper is to аssess the prospects for using the Molokovskoye deposit (Transbaikalia) clay in metallurgical practice. The mechanical strength of bonding chamotte blocks with clay and chamotte crumb pastes is determined. The results obtained indicate the analogy of adhesive interactions ensured by the proximity of the crystal chemical composition. Despite the fact that, in addition to aluminum and silicon oxides, the Molokovskoye deposit clay contains up to 20% of oxides of other elements, their participation in building the interlayer structure does not lead to a noticeable decrease in strength characteristics. The properties of pastes made of clay and chamotte crumbs are studied using traditional physicochemical and thermal engineering research methods including gravimetry, chemical analysis of an oriented sample of mineral raw materials. Extensometering on the Shimadzu Autograph AGS-X testing machine is used to determine the mechanical strength. The chemical and mineral composition of the Molokovskoye deposit clay is determined. It is shown that about 80% of the total composition is formed by aluminum oxide (18%) and silicon oxide (61%). The clay also features the presence of oxides of sodium and potassium, calcium, titanium, iron, magnesium and manganese. Mineral manifestations are found in the form of calcite, alkaline feldspar, muscovite, smectite and mica-smectite. The conducted laboratory studies classified the clay from the Molokovskoye deposit (Transbaikalia) able to be used in metallurgical practice and useful to be recommended for lining masses, coating and fixing of blast-furnace masonry, processing of auxiliary tools such as molds, samplers and spoons for melt.