Characterization and use of clays from the Rio Bonito Formation/Paraná Basin for ceramic industry application

Raw materials with different technological properties found in the same geological region can constitute a ceramic formulation upon proper mixing. This study aims to demonstrate the best way to develop a mixture using a mixture design method, emphasizing the geology of three clays in the Rio Bonito Formation/Paraná Basin. The mineralogical and chemical characteristics of these clays were investigated by X‐ray diffraction and X‐ray fluorescence, respectively, along with elementary (CNH), differential thermal and thermogravimetric analysis, and dilatometry. Ten formulations and their technological properties, including apparent density, shrinkage, water absorption, and mechanical resistance, were investigated. The results showed the potential of the studied mineral deposit clays for application in the ceramic industry in different materials. Clay 1 showed refractory characteristics, and Clay 3 was more plastic. The mixtures with higher contents of Clay 1 showed ideal for monoporosa tile recipes. The mixtures with higher contents of Clay 3 were ideal for porcelain tile pastes.