Studies on pore deformation mechanism in particles

Abstract

Pore deformation mechanism in shrinking Nigeria clays, was studied over a range of heating temperature from 1000-13000C. The results of the study indicate that pores pre-existing before sintering deformed by the collapsing of the wall surrounding the pores. It was discovered that the wall surrounding the pre -existing pores collapsed as a result of the weakening of the clay-binder contact surface and loosening of the macro structure of the formed clays, occasioned by the response of the clay and binder to temperature increase. It was also found that binder burn-out which releases gases, elimination of gaseous product of decomposition and oxidation of some clay constituents as well as evaporation of free water between clay and binder particles, all played very vital roles in decreasing the pre-existing inter-particle separation, hence deforming the pores.