Although dolomite is abundant in the Brazilian northern state of Piauí, it has not been used by the local ceramic industry. As a result of its chemical and mineralogical characteristics, dolomite can be used in the fabrication of glazed ceramics. Among the potential benefits, the presence of flux oxides and other constituents may improve dimensional stability and mechanical strength of the ceramic. This study aimed at evaluating the addition of dolomitic carbonate to red ceramic mass for the production of glazed ceramics. To that end, different contents of carbonate were added to an industrial ceramic mass traditionally used in the local production of semiporous glazed ceramics. Samples were fired at three temperatures: 1080 ºC, 1120 ºC, and 1160 ºC. Linear shrinkage, water absorption, apparent specific gravity, mechanical strength and microstructural evaluation were all carried out. The results showed the potential application of Piauí dolomite in ceramic tile.
dolomite; ceramic mass; glazed red ceramics
