Characterization of Pegmatoid from Dimension Stones Tailings for Application as Ceramic Raw Material

Abstract

Exploitation and processing of pegmatoids at Brazil's northeast (Serido region-RN State) aiming further use as dimension stone produces mass losses ranging between 30%-90%. The tailings are predominantly composed by feldspar, quartz, muscovite and other Fe-bearing silicates such as biotite and amphiboles, suitable for ceramic production. The recovery of these elements depends on mica's remotion to levels under 2.0%, preferentially by dry methods due the scarce amount of water prevailing at Serido region. This paper presents results from pegmatite tailings characterization from Serido region showing the potentially application as raw material for ceramic production. To do it, a new technological route must be developed to fit it as main component to white ceramic industry, considering the properties required by ceramic industries.