Infrared analysis, X-ray powdered diffraction and X-ray fluorescence studies of clay sample from Umuariagaoboro ikwuano L.G.A Abia state:- Agbata, Ifunanya V.

ABSTRACT

 Qualitative composition of mineralogical composition of clay from Umuariaga Oboro was performed using X-ray powdered diffraction, X-ray fluorescence and infrared analysis. The FTIR showed Si-O, Si-O-Al and OH functional groups. The XRF showed the presence ofFe, Al and Si while other minerals are present in small amount which suggested they might be impurities. The d-spacing and relative intensity ofthe X-ray diffraction pattern ofcomposite sample was compared with the references diffractogram from mineralogy database. Odinite mineral was identified to be present in the clay. Chemical formula for odinite is (Fe3+, Mg,Al,Fe2+, Ti,Mn)2.5(Si,Al)2.s(OH)4. The identification of odinite mineral can be of economic importance because they have been widely used as a foundry-sand bond in the steel making industry as well as a building agent in the manufacturing of iron ore pellets. They are also used to produce earthware, stoneware and porcelain.