Abstracto

Effect of bagasse ash on some refractory properties of Alkaleri clay (Alumino-silicate)

R.M.Gadzama

The possibilities of upgrading some refractory properties of Alkaleri Clay, found in Alkaleri village, Bauchi State, Nigeria, by blending with bagasse ash production of fire clay refractory bricks were investigated. Refractory properties such as: linear shrinkage, apparent porosity, bulk density, cold crushing strength and thermal shock resistance were tested with percentage additions of bagasse ash from 5-25% in the blend. The test was conducted using the standard test techniques in each case. The results were compared with standard refractory properties for fire clay bricks. Linear shrinkage, apparent porosity of the bricks made from the blend clay decreased, as the percentages of bagasse ash increased. The cold crushing strength and thermal shock resistance increased as the percentages of bagasse ash addition increased. All the values obtained from the blends are within the recommended values for dense fire clay bricks.