A STUDY IN THE MINERALOGICAL AND AESTHETIC CHARACTERISTICS OF SEDIMENTS IN GANSU PROVINCE, CHINA

The purpose of this study was to understand the mineralogical characteristics of the surface regolith within four main study regions of Gansu province, in tandem with their melt behavior when used as a ceramic glaze. These mineral compositions were obtained using X-Ray Diffraction and X-Ray Fluorescence techniques, while their melt behavior was observed after firing in a ceramics kiln to cone 6 (~1220°C). Increased dominance of quartz resulted in a thicker, grainier texture, while increased K-feldspar and calcite concentrations promotes vitreous luster; plasticity and cohesion were promoted by supplemental kaolinite. Concentration of hematite, combined with melt thickness, were primary factors in determining fired color in most cases. All sediments studied had similar mineralogical profiles, though proportions of minerals varied with geomorphological origin. The appearance of these fired sediments was found to be varied and desirable for use in the ceramic arts industry, as they yield high-quality glazes with minimal preparation. Greater understanding of the mineralogical contexts of widely available sediments shows the driving mechanisms of melt behavior, which may assist in the utilization of these sediments as a local, national or international industry.