Effect of mechanical activation on cordierite synthesis through solid-state sintering method

Synthesis of cordierite (5SiO2·2MgO·2Al2O3) has attracted special attention from researchers for its special characteristics. Most common method of cordierite preparation is solid-state reaction using source of alumina, silica and magnesia, which requires temperature of 1350 °C or above. This study deals with the effect of mechanical activation on cordierite synthesis at lower temperature. Talc, kaolinite clay and alumina powder were taken as precursor materials and the batches were formulated on the basis of stoichometric cordierite formation. Particle size distribution (PSD) was measured to get the distribution pattern of milled powder. Pellets were prepared by compaction of dried milled powders and fired at 1200 °C temperature. X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique was used to characterize crystalline phases. Microstructural analysis was done under scanning electron microscope (SEM). It was observed that properties were improved with milling time. Dense and uniform microstructures were formed when samples were milled for 45 and 60 min.