Mineralogical characterization of clay deposits in embilipitiya region to study the presence of Montmorillonite Nano Particles

Abstract

Montmorillonite (MMT) is a clay type which has wide range of applications in the traditional engineering fields. Recent development has increased attention to this clay since it can be used in the synthesis of polymer-clay nanocomposites which has enhanced physical and mechanical properties. In this research clay deposits located in Embilipitiya region were studied. A methodologysince it can be used in the synthesis of polymer-clay nanocomposites which has enhanced physical and mechanical properties. In this research clay deposits located in Embilipitiya region were studied. A methodology for sample preparation was carried out in order to remove non-clay material and enhance the clay content. A chosen clay sample was then subjected to a partial isolation process of ultrasonic treatment and sedimentation. For characterization purpose Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Xray diffraction (XRD) analysis, Differential Thermal Analysis (DTA) and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) and Particle size distribution analysis by Hydrometer method as well as by laser method were used. To aid the analysis commercial MMT and kaolinite were also tested. Characterization by FTIR method revealed that MMT and kaolinite minerals are present and DTA and TGA aid this findings. XRD analysis also confirms the presence of MMT, Kaolinite, Quartz and Pyrophyllite in the clay samples and also many other types of clays and non-clay minerals. The ultrasonic treatment and sedimentation has enhanced the amount of nano particle as of 80%of particles are less than ljim and die Quartz intensity has declined, which was confirmed by the XRD analysis.