A preliminary mineralogical and physicochemical characterization of the Neogene clays from the Timgad Basin (Massif of Aurès, NE Algeria): potential use in the manufacturing of bricks and ceramic industry

Neogene clays from the Timgad Basin (Massif of Aurès, NE Algeria) exhibit ideal mineralogical and physicochemical properties for brick and ceramic manufacturing. These non-refractory clays, dominated by kaolinite with notable illite, chlorite, and mixed-layer clay minerals, alongside quartz and calcite, demonstrate medium plasticity but require degreasing treatment—such as adding coarse sand—to optimize their use in terra cotta production. The study employed X-ray diffraction, fluorescence, scanning electron microscopy, laser granulometry, and geotechnical tests to characterize the clays, revealing high Atterberg limits that necessitate preliminary processing for industrial applications.

Lamouri, B., Labadi, S. A., Boukoffa, M., Chouaf, I., Djouder, H., Djaiz, F., & Bouabsa, L. (2022). A preliminary mineralogical and physicochemical characterization of the Neogene clays from the Timgad Basin (Massif of Aurès, NE Algeria): potential use in the manufacturing of bricks and ceramic industry. SN Applied Sciences, 4(5). https://doi.org/10.1007/s42452-022-05029-5