The aim of this study is to determine the ceramic properties of Karacasu clay (KC) fired at various temperatures. For this purpose, the clay sample was first characterized by chemical analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), DTA/TG analysis and plasticity measurements. The mineralogical composition of KC was dominated by illite/mica, kaolinite, smectite, quartz and hematite. DTA/TG analyses showed comparable behaviour to those of illitic clays. The data obtained from plasticity tests indicated that KC was very high plastic clay. To evaluate firing behaviors, pressed clay samples were fired separately at temperatures between 850 and 1200 degrees C. Fired specimens were evaluated by water absorption, linear shrinkage, bulk density, bending strength, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that there became a significant densification at temperatures especially above 1000 degrees C. Based on the technological characteristics, KC could be used in the manufacture of structural ceramics.

Keywords: Karacasu clay; Characterization; Firing behavior; Ceramic properties