Recycling of silica fume waste in the manufacture of β-eucryptite ceramics

In this study, the ceramic material β-eucryptite was synthesized by using solid reaction method based on utilizing the waste silica fume, calcined alumina and lithium carbonate. The pressed samples were fired at different temperatures; 800°, 1000° and 1200 °C. Phase composition, particles sizes, morphology of raw materials and fired β-eucryptite were studied. Physical properties, thermal expansion, DSC, TG, surface area, mechanical and electrical properties were also investigated for β-eucryptite. Furthermore, the effects of heat treatments on the physical, electrical, thermal and mechanical properties were also studied. The results demonstrated that the crystallization of pure β-eucryptite ceramic was crack-free, had low thermal expansion, good electrical, physical and mechanical properties obtained after firing at 1000 °C. [Display omitted] •Pure β-eucryptite was prepared by using fine amorphous silica fume, calcined alumina, and lithium carbonate powder mixture•The bodies were fired at 800°, 1000° and 1200°C•The results indicated that the firing at 1000° and 1200 °C enhances the formation of pure β-eucryptite.•The thermal expansion of β-eucryptite showed the U-shaped and two shrinkage positions at 0–240 °C and 700°-1000°C•At 1000°C, the β-eucryptite had good mechanical and electrical properties due to the good physical parameters.