Characterization of Ordu Unye and Uzunisa region clays and investigation of their usage in slip bodies

In many regions of Turkey, there are alternative sources of raw materials used in ceramic bodies. There ara many raw materials that produce desired color and surfaces with wet, half wet and dry shaping methods after firing. These raw materials having different chemical, physical, mineralogical structure and properties are used in the production of industrial and artistic ceramics. The aim of this study is to evaluate the raw materials obtained from clay quarries in Uzunisa and Unye regions of Ordu province in ceramic slurry recipes and to determine their suitability for different shaping methods. Firstly, firing color, shrinkage, water absorption and electrolyte tests of the clay samples were done. The prepared samples were fired at 900, 1000, 1060 and 1100 oC. As the degree of firing is increased, the color of the samples was changed from white to red. After evaluating the mineralogical, physical and chemical properties of the samples, the firing temperature was determined as 900 oC. Afterwards, recipe studies were carried out for ceramic slurries by using ulexite, alkaline frite, red lead and cast clay. Samples were shaped and fired at 900 oC to determine strength, water absorption and color values. Chemical analyses of the samples were performed with x-ray fluorescence (XRF) and L * a * b * color measurement was done with spectrophotometer. Ceramic bodies prepared by using clays of Ordu region were also shaped by using wet press, wheel pottery and slip casting methods in order to determine the most suitable shaping methods for the bodies. Keywords: Ordu Unye Clay, Uzunisa Clay, Shaping Method, Ceramic Body