Characterization and determination of ceramic properties of the çavuşçugöl basin (Ilgın-Konya) clays

In this thesis, the geology, mineralogy, geochemical properties, and formation conditions of the stratified clay deposits in the Çavuşçugöl (Ilgın-Konya) basin were determined, and their ceramic properties were determined to reveal the usability of these clays as a raw material source in the ceramic industry. For the characterization of clay deposits in the study area, polarising microscope, x-ray diffraction (XRD), x-ray fluorescence (XRF), differential thermal and thermogravimetric analysis (DT/TGA), inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy (ICP – MS) analyses and optical microscope examinations were performed. As a result of these studies identified illite, kaolinite, chlorite, and smectite group clay minerals and pyrophyllite, quartz, hematite, rutile, zeolite, and feldspar minerals were detected in the samples. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and microchemical (EDS) examinations have identified various crystal structures of clay minerals. These structures, such as the booklet structures of kaolinites and lath structures of illites, have provided detailed information about the formation of clay minerals. The clay deposits in the Çavuşçugöl basin are clay formations of detritic origin formed as a result of the decomposition and transport of the phyllitic rocks that make up the base rocks. The basic physical properties of the clays, such as viscosity, dry strength, firing strength, and water absorption, revealed that these clays can be used in ceramic product recipes such as porcelain, floor tiles, wall tiles, and stoneware. Keywords: Ceramic, Clay, Çavuşçugöl, Ilgın, Konya, Technology