Study of the reasons for heterogeneity in feldspar-quartz material after firing

This article presents a study of two pellets formed from feldspar-quartz materials that differ from each other in particle size distribution and chemical composition. After firing at 1200°C, dark inclusions of metallic luster and different sizes (7-8 and 500-600 μm respectively) appeared on their surface. In order to identify the mineralogical character of this heterogeneity and to determine the causes of the inclusions’ variation, the samples were examined by scanning (SEM/EDS) and reflected light microscopy. The research resulted in the conclusion that the formation of the inclusions is a consequence of the mineral and chemical composition of the raw materials, especially the content of ferruginous phases. Hematite was found as the main mineral phase of the inclusions. It is suggested that the formation of its clusters in the firing process is a result of the decomposition of iron-bearing minerals (biotite, chlorite) and further separation of ferruginous mineral phases from the alloy. The difference in the size of the inclusions can be associated with different particle size distribution of the raw materials used in the pellets’ preparation. The existence of a relationship between grain size and the degree of sintering and uniformity of the fired ceramic material has been confirmed by the results of studies published by other authors. Optimal comminution of the raw materials used in the process of the ceramics’ fast firing is essential to obtaining materials free from unwanted inclusions, characterized by dense microstructure and the required parameters.