Preparation of meta phase of kaolinite as a precursor for geopolymer adsorbent fabrication

Calcined kaolinite was produced by thermal treatment of raw kaolinite obtained from high quality kaolin deposits intercalated sedimentary rocks in south Sinai (Egypt). The optimal parameters for complete de-hydroxylation of kaolinite were achieved. It was found that heating at 700 degrees C for 90 minutes was suitable for activation of kaolinite. The formation of meta-kaolinite was investigated by XRD, IR analyses of raw kaolinite and meta-kaolinite. The pozzolanic activity was determined by Chappell test, the obtained average value of 0.70 g Ca(OH)(2)/g meta-kaolinite indicated that the produced meta-kaolinite can be used as an active source for fabrication of geopolymer adsorbent material.

Automated summary

Calcined kaolinite was produced by thermal treatment of raw kaolinite, and the optimal activation parameters were determined. The formation process of the calcined kaolinite was analyzed, and its suitability for fabricating adsorbent material was confirmed.