Characterization of Kaolin Clay from Kutigi and Its De-Aluminated form for Catalysts Development towards Economic growth of Nigeria

Abstract

Kaolin, a product of natural hydrated aluminium silicate which has undergone refinement is a type of clay material which is usually in powder form and is whitish in colour. It is a soft sedimentary rock which has light weight and a chalk-like appearance. The chemical analysis of the kaolin obtained from Kutigi in Niger State by X-ray fluorescence shows that the clay is mainly composed of silica and alumina which are 50.94% and 32.93% respectively. The de-alumination of the clay by action of H2SO4 shows that a large percentage of the silica in the clay was removed. X-ray fluorescence of the de-aluminated clay shows a higher alumina content (76.236%) and silica (1.095%) indicating its removal.