Plasticity of Red Mud and Clay Mixtures

Abstract

Recent study is focusing on the plasticity properties of clay and red mud (RM) mixtures. Two different clays were examined with (carbonate clay, CC) and without earth alkali carbonate (carbonate free clay, CFC) content. Red mud with 32 wt% moisture content was added for dried and powdered clays. Maximum applicable red mud content (30 wt%) was determined by mixing experiment. The mixtures were prepared by pan mill and samples of 33 mm in diameter and 40 mm in height were pressed. Measurements were obtained with 20, 22, 24 and 26 wt% moisture content in each mixture. Two methods were used for measurement and characterization of the plasticity of clay body. Beside determination of Pfefferkorn plasticity index, deformation curves of different samples were also recorded and analysed. Results indicated that red mud affected the forming behaviour of clays. Addition of red mud may rise the energy consumption of extrusion process.