ENHANCEMENT OF THE PHYSICOCHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF BIDA CLAY THROUGH ADDITIVE MODIFICATION FOR INDUSTRIAL APPLICATIONS
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33003/fjs-2026-1004-4763Keywords:
Bida Clay, Additive Modification, Physicochemical Properties, Industrial ApplicationsAbstract
This study investigates the effect of additive modification on the physicochemical and thermal properties of Bida clay for enhanced engineering applications. Fly ash, rice husk ash (RHA), and bentonite were incorporated at 0–20 wt. % and evaluated using standard physicochemical tests, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). One-way ANOVA was used to assess statistical significance. Results showed that fly ash and RHA significantly improved clay performance. The plasticity index decreased from 32% in raw clay to 18% at 20 wt. % fly ash, while linear shrinkage reduced from 7.5% to 4.2%, indicating improved dimensional stability. Bulk density increased, and water absorption decreased, reflecting enhanced densification and reduced porosity. Thermal stability improved, with lower weight loss at 1000 °C, attributed to better sintering and formation of stable aluminosilicate phases. XRF analysis revealed increased SiO₂ and Al₂O₃ content, while XRD confirmed retention of primary clay minerals with minor formation of high-temperature phases. SEM images showed a transition from a porous to a dense microstructure, and FTIR indicated structural rearrangement within the aluminosilicate framework. ANOVA confirmed that all properties were significantly affected by additive content (p < 0.05), with fly ash and RHA at 15–20 wt. % showing the best performance, while bentonite had limited effectiveness. The findings demonstrate that modified Bida clay is suitable for structural, ceramic, and refractory applications, offering a sustainable approach to utilizing industrial and agricultural wastes.
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