MECHANICAL AND MICROSTRUCTURAL PROPERTIES OF OPAQUE CERAMIC TILES GLAZED WITH SOME INDUSTRIAL WASTES

The primary goal of this research is to determine the mechanical properties of opaque glazed ceramic tiles containing fly ash, tincal waste, and recycled red clay, including to assess if the results meet international requirements.
Opaque glaze and tincal waste were the main components of all glaze compositions of four groups, which were named OG (original), FA (fly ash), RC (red clay), and FC (mixture) according to the additive. The ceramic tiles were prepared by dipping the biscuits in the glaze composition and firing them at 1150 ?C.
The water absorption of the FA, RC, and FC tiles was less than that of the OG tiles (< 0.52 %) and the scratch hardness values were between 6 and 7. All the experimental groups were also resistant to thermal shock, chemicals, and staining showing high opacity (L* > 92) and having a light yellow-red color.
The micro- and crystallographic structure of some selected tiles were determined by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction techniques. Zircon, diopside and augite phases were recognized.