CHARACTERIZATION OF CLAYS FROM BOYACÁ (COLOMBIA) WITH POTENTIAL CERAMIC USE

The region of Boyacá (Colombia) features an important variety of mining resources, including clay minerals, siliceous sands, diatomite, quartz, limestone and phosphoric rock, among others. In this investigation, the clays present in the municipalities of Sogamoso, Ráquira and Cómbita are very important, given their strong potential for ceramic use (v. gr. Ceramic tiles). The studies are developed through mineralogical analysis via X-ray diffraction, chemical composition via X-ray fluorescence and an evaluation of physical‒chemical properties such as linear contraction, porosity and mechanical resistance, considered priority information to develop applications in the field of ceramic science and technology (i.e., porcelain stoneware).