MJSTEM

Abstract

This study compares and characterizes clay deposits in Lafia and Doma to assess industrial suitability. Mineralogical compositions and major oxide chemistry were determined using XRD and XRF respectively, while particle size and Atterberg limits were determined by geotechnical tests. The clays are kaolinitic with mineral phases showing dominant kaolinite and quartz with mean values of 42.0 wt% and 38.25 wt% respectively. Other subordinate minerals include orthoclase (7.5 wt%), muscovite (6.25wt%), illite (3.25wt%), and albite (2.75 wt%). The major oxide composition of the clays is dominated by high SiO2 and Al2O3. Clay samples in Doma and Lafia have a mean SiO2 value of 46.20wt% and 49.63wt% respectively. Mean Al2O3 values are 32.71 wt% in Doma and 41.64 wt% in Lafia. Fe2O3 is also present in a significant amount with mean values of 10.47 and 3.95 wt% in Doma and Lafia, respectively. Other oxides such as TiO2, CaO, K2O, MnO, and MgO form a low proportion of chemistry. Particle size analysis indicates dominant of fine-grained materials with clay particles ranging from 68 – 74% in Doma and 72 – 79% in Lafia. The Atterberg limit test shows a difference in plasticity between the clays in Doma and Lafia. Doma clays have moderate plasticity, while Lafia clays have high plasticity. These attributes align with the industrial requirements for use in ceramic products such as tiles, stoneware, bricks, and pottery. Lafia clays meet chemical requirements for use in cement production, while Doma clay is deficient in kaolinite content. While Fe2O3 exceeds and TiO2 is below the industrial specification, beneficiation could improve the suitability to produce paint.

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