Characterization and Evaluation of Syenite rocks of Poços de Caldas (MG - Brazil) in the Manufacture of Frit and Glazes

ABSTRACT

The present work aimed to characterize the firing behavior of glazes formulated using samples of rocks from the region of Poços de Caldas as a substitute for feldspar. Four formulations were performed, using samples before and after a magnetic separation process. The raw materials were analyzed for their chemical-mineralogical characteristics and the formulations were characterized using Binil Surface Application and fusibility button test, in colorimetric and brightness analyzes. The formulations were also characterized for their coloration compared to the standard glaze, holding nepheline. It was verified that the potassium rock sample presented dark colors (post-magnetic separation), making it impossible to use. The foyaite samples showed promising results, before and after the magnetic separation. According to the results of the colorimetric analysis as the fusibility tests were performed, the non-magnetic samples were clearer due to a comparison of the standard sample of nepheline in both fluorescent light and sunlight, indicating that these samples have potential for use in the formulation of glazes and are interesting alternatives to nepheline and feldspars.

Keywords
foyaite; syenitic rocks; glazes; flux