Synthesis of cordierite powder from talc, diatomite and alumina

A cordierite powder was synthesized from a batch composition of talc, diatomite and alumina. Sintered samples of the synthesized cordierite were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential thermal analysis (DTA), and Rietveld analysis. The XRD analysis showed hexagonal or alpha-cordierite (indialite) as a major phase along with MgAl2O4 spinel and cristobalite as secondary phases in the samples sintered at 1300 degrees C for 1 h, whereas indialite phase only was observed at 1350 degrees C for 3 and 5 h as well as at 1400 degrees C for 1 h. Density and linear thermal expansion coefficient of the sample synthesized at 1400 degrees C for 1 h were 2.47 g cm(-3) and 1.8 x 10(-6) degrees C-1, respectively. (C) 2005 Elsevier Ltd and Techna Group S.r.l. All rights reserved.