Evaluation, Beneficiation and Utilization of Some Plastic Clays of India

Nine plastic clays collected from different parts of India were studied for their suitability for use as substitutes for ball clays in ceramic industry along with a few well reputed foreign ball clays with special reference to their occurrence, ceramic properties, beneficiation and utilization. From the present studies it has been revealed that Padappakara and Kumbalam clays from Kerala having excellent plastic and fired properties can be used as good substitutes for quality ceramic products. Bilaspur, although not as good as Kerala clays but fired colour being lighter, may also be used in manufacturing whitewares. Three Rajasthan clays, found to have satisfactory plastic and dry properties but fired colour being deeper, are suggested for use in products where fired colour is not of much relevance. Fired colour of Punyakshetram being darker it could be recommended for use only in stoneware type crockeries with opaque glaze. Than and Rajhara, now widely used, suffered from inferior plastic and other proper...