Investigation of the effects of vermiculite on the properties of sanitaryware

This study aims to save energy and improve product properties by using vermiculite, a local raw material, in vitrified ceramic production. In the study, ceramic samples containing different proportions (0%, 5%, 10%) of vermiculite additives were prepared and their physical and mechanical properties were investigated. The vermiculite to be used as an additive was first melted at >1250o C, cooled rapidly and then ground below 100 microns in a ball mill to be of the same size as the other raw materials in the vitrified mass. It was then homogeneously mixed with commercial vitrified mass and poured into plaster molds and dried in an oven. The dried samples were then baked at 1210o C for 1 hour. After the baking process was completed, the samples were subjected to various tests to determine their physical and mechanical properties. Baking shrinkage, water absorption, three-point bending strength and color analysis of the prepared samples were performed. As a result of the analysis, the effects of vermiculite additive on the physical and mechanical properties of vitrified ceramics were evaluated.