How does clay appear? Useful and healing properties of clay

Clay is an interesting and diverse material in its properties, which is formed as a result of the destruction of rocks. Many, dealing with this plastic substance, think: what does clay consist of? Let's find out the answer to this question, and also figure out how this person can be useful.

What is clay, what substance does it consist of

Clay is a sedimentary rock, fine-grained in its structure. In a dry state, it is often dusty, and if it is moistened, it becomes a plastic and pliable material that takes any shape. When solidified, the clay becomes solid, its shape does not change.

The mineral composition of clays of different types, although different, necessarily contains substances of the kaolinite and montmorillonite groups or other layered aluminosilicates. Also, clay may have other impurities, carbonate and sand particles among its constituents.

The typical composition of this substance looks like this:

• kaolinite - 47%;
• aluminum oxide - 39%;
• water - 14%.

This is not all the components of clay. Mineral inclusions - halloysite, diaspore, hydrargillite, corundum, monothermite, muscovite and others - are also present in different quantities. Such minerals can pollute clays and kaolins: quartz, dolomite, gypsum, magnetite, pyrite, limonite, marcasite.

Clay types

What clay consists of depends largely on the place and method of its formation. Depending on this, there are:

1. Sedimentary clays are the result of the transfer of natural weathering products and their deposition in certain place. They are marine - born at the bottom of the seas and oceans and continental - formed on the mainland. Marine clays, in turn, are divided into:

• offshore;
• lagoon;
• coastal.

2. Residual clays are formed during the weathering process of non-plastic rocks and their transformation into plastic kaolins. The study of such residual deposits can show a smooth transition of clay into the parent rock with a change in height.

clay properties

Regardless of what substance clay is made of and where it was formed, there are characteristic properties that distinguish it from other natural materials.

When dry, the clay has a dusty texture. If it is frozen in lumps, it crumbles easily. This material quickly gets wet, absorbs water, as a result of which it swells. In this case, the clay acquires water resistance - the ability not to pass liquid.

The main feature of clay is its plasticity - the ability to easily take on any shape. Depending on this ability, clay can be classified into "fat" - which is characterized by increased plasticity, and "lean" - diluted with other substances and gradually losing this property.

Plastic clay is characterized by stickiness and viscosity. This property is widely used in construction. Think mortar what does it consist of? Clay is an obligatory component of any connecting solution.

Distribution on the planet

Clay is a very common material on Earth, and therefore inexpensive. There are a lot of clay deposits in any area. On the sea coasts, you can see clay heaps, which used to be solid rocks. The banks and bottom of rivers and lakes are often covered with a layer of clay. If the forest path either has a brown or red tint, then most likely it also consists of residual clay.

In the industrial production of clay, the method of open mining is used. To get to the deposits of a useful substance, they first remove and then take out the fossils. At different depths, clay layers may differ in composition and properties.

Use of clay by man

As already mentioned, most often clay is used in construction. Everyone knows that the usual material for the construction of structures is bricks. What are they made of? Sand and clay are the main components of the dough, which, under the influence of high temperatures, becomes hard and turns into a brick. So that the wall of individual blocks does not crumble, a viscous solution is used, which also contains clay.

A mixture of clay and water becomes the raw material for pottery production. Mankind has long since learned to produce vases, bowls, jugs and other containers from clay. They can have different sizes and shapes. Previously, pottery was necessary and widespread, and earthenware became the only accessories used in everyday life and very hot commodity in the markets.

Clay is widely used in medicine and cosmetology. Those who care about the beauty and health of the skin are aware of the beneficial effects of certain types of this substance. Clay is used for wraps, masks and lotions. It effectively fights cellulite, gives the skin elasticity, and prevents premature aging. For some medical indications, clay is even used orally. And in case of skin diseases, dried and powdered material is prescribed in the form of powders. It is important to mention that not any clay is used for such purposes, but only some of its types that have antiseptic and antimicrobial properties.

What is polymer clay

Polymer clay makes it easy to imitate the texture of other materials, such as wood or stone. From this plastic substance, you can make souvenirs yourself, Christmas decorations, jewelry, interior decorations, key chains and much more. Such products self made will be an excellent gift, can be stored for a long time, while not losing its attractive appearance and original shape.

What is polymer clay made of? Recipe for cooking at home

The needlewomen, who were interested in the process of making such bright souvenirs, probably thought about how to make polymer clay on one's own. This is a very real challenge. Naturally, the resulting material will not be identical to the factory polymer clay, but if properly manufactured, its properties will not be inferior in any way.

Required components:

• PVA glue - 1 cup;
• cornstarch - 1 cup;
• non-greasy silicone-free hand cream - 1 tablespoon;
• vaseline - 1 tablespoon;
• lemon juice - 2 tablespoons.

That's all that consists of which we will cook at home.

Mix starch, glue and petroleum jelly thoroughly, add lemon juice and mix again until a homogeneous mass is obtained. We put in the microwave for 30 seconds, mix and send it there for another 30 seconds. The crust that has formed on the surface must be removed and discarded, and the elastic mass put on a tray smeared with hand cream and knead vigorously for 5 minutes. After cooling, our polymer clay is ready to use.

By learning how to make polymer clay yourself, you can save on expensive purchased materials and, without limiting yourself, learn an interesting, creative activity.

Clay is an interesting and diverse material in its properties, which is formed as a result of the destruction of rocks. Many, dealing with this plastic substance, think: what does clay consist of? Let's find out the answer to this question, and also figure out how this natural material can be useful to a person.

Mankind has long been familiar with the healing properties of clay. Even in ancient times, it was used not only for the manufacture of dishes, but also for medical purposes. The Egyptians used this product for embalming, and ancient scientists and doctors, describing clay, spoke of its healing power. The famous Russian doctor Botkin successfully used it to treat diseases of the heart and blood vessels, Graves' disease, and disorders of the nervous system. To date, clay is widely used in both official and alternative medicine, it is used to eliminate cosmetic problems. As you can see, the applications of clay are extensive, and therefore let's talk in more detail about what clay is, its medicinal properties and applications, about the use of clay by a person for health purposes.

What exactly is clay? It is a fine-grained sedimentary rock, plastic when wet and pulverulent when dry. Clay consists of the minerals montmorillonite, kaolinite, or other layered aluminosilicates. Its mineral composition is so diverse that it is almost comparable to fruits or vegetables. It is able to absorb carcinogens and toxins, thereby cleansing the body. The clay is high in silicon and aluminum, it contains calcium, magnesium, iron oxide and other oxides, it also contains titanium anhydride.

It is often used to treat atherosclerosis, tuberculosis, and even multiple sclerosis, precisely because of its high silicon content.

Clay is divided into different types depending on the color, which is determined by the increased presence of salts and other components in it. This determines the range of its use.

Blue clay is high in cobalt and cadmium. It is most often used for medical purposes.

In red - potassium and iron. Thanks to these substances, it has a good effect on the joints, muscles and spine. Mainly used for applications.

Green has a lot of ferrous iron and copper. It is suitable for the treatment of tumors, liver, pancreas. It treats oily skin and hair.

Black and dark brown are high in iron and carbon. It is used in the cosmetic industry.

In yellow - sulfur, sodium, ferric iron. Compresses and applications on sore joints are made from it. It also treats skin rashes and cellulite.

The properties of clay depend on the size of its particles. They have enormous adsorption capacities, with a surface area of ​​about 80 square meters per gram. The size of the particles and their properties are directly related to the origin of the clay.

High adsorption allows clay to absorb toxins, putrefactive elements, harmful acids. It is used to treat tumors, both benign and malignant.

There is a theory that using clay can positively affect the human biofield.

For treatment, blue clay is mainly used.

Its external use occurs with radiculitis, arthritis, diseases of the muscles and tendons, with skin ailments, menstrual irregularities, prostatitis and colds.

At the same time, it can be used both for chronic ailments and for acute forms of diseases.

Clay is used for lotions, and for wraps, and for rubbing. Put her on sore spot tiles one and a half to two centimeters thick. At the same time, it can be cold, warm or slightly heated, depending on the disease.

So, for example, warm clay is used for diseases of the kidneys, liver and joints. And if abscesses are being treated, then it is recommended to apply compresses from clay water and replace them regularly.

Clay can also be used for douching in various diseases of the female genitourinary system. At the same time, it is taken 3-4 tablespoons per liter of water. In this case, the water should be heated to body temperature.

When treating with clay, quite serious deterioration in the condition can be observed. But often they do not require cessation of therapy, but only indicate the release of toxins from the body.

Clay treatment is good to carry out in combination with dietary nutrition, massages, dousing, sunbathing, aromatherapy and foot reflexology.

There are methods of internal application of clay. To do this, it is best to take it in a whole piece, fatty, without impurities. By taking it inside, atherosclerosis, diseases of the digestive system, kidneys, liver, gallbladder, blood and skin are treated.

Clay balls are an excellent remedy for diseases of the oral cavity and toothache. They should only be sucked and rolled in the mouth.

Clay is great for water purification. To do this, take one piece per liter of water. After that, the container with water must be set aside and allowed to stand for a couple of hours. Be sure - clay absorbs all toxins and toxic substances.

Clay is also widely used in the cosmetics industry. It is used for whole body care, preparation of cleansing and rejuvenating masks.

You can make such a mask with your own hands by mixing it to a paste with cucumber juice and water. Apply the resulting mass on the skin of the face and leave until completely dry.

Wash off with warm water. Such a mask will have a cleansing, nourishing and tightening effect. But don't do it more than once a week.

In conclusion, let me remind you about the use of clay for storing vegetable crops. Many gardeners, before laying carrots, potatoes, dip the fruits in a clay mash for storage. Then, after drying, a protective film is created around the vegetable. Practice shows that the harvest processed in this way is stored longer.

As you can see, the use of clay has a lot of options and possibilities. Its medicinal properties allow you to treat, because it has practically no contraindications, and therefore it is successfully used in various branches of medical science, it preserves the harvest, it can also take care of the beauty of your skin. Conclusion - clay has many faces and is certainly useful!

Clay- this is a fine-grained sedimentary rock, dusty in a dry state, plastic when moistened.

Origin of clay.

Clay is a secondary product formed as a result of the destruction of rocks in the process of weathering. The main source of clayey formations are feldspars, upon destruction of which, under the influence of atmospheric agents, silicates of the group of clay minerals are formed. Some clays are formed during the local accumulation of these minerals, but most of them are sediments of water streams that accumulate on the bottom of lakes and seas.

In general, by origin and composition, all clays are divided into:

- sedimentary clays, formed as a result of the transfer to another place and the deposition there of clay and other products of the weathering crust. By origin, sedimentary clays are divided into marine clays deposited on the seabed and continental clays formed on the mainland.

Among marine clays, there are:

• coastal- are formed in coastal zones (zones of resuspension) of the seas, open bays, river deltas. Often characterized by unsorted material. Quickly transition to sandy and coarse-grained varieties. Replaced along strike by sandy and carbonate deposits. Such clays are usually interbedded with sandstones, siltstones, coal seams, and carbonate rocks.
• Lagoon- are formed in sea lagoons, semi-enclosed with a high concentration of salts or desalinated. In the first case, clays are heterogeneous in granulometric composition, are not sufficiently sorted, and wind up together with gypsum or salts. The clays of desalinated lagoons are usually fine-dispersed, thin-layered, contain inclusions of calcite, siderite, iron sulfides, etc. Among these clays there are refractory varieties.
• Offshore- are formed at a depth of up to 200 m in the absence of currents. They are characterized by a uniform granulometric composition, high thickness (up to 100 m and more). Distributed over a large area.

Among the continental clays are:

• Deluvial- are characterized by a mixed granulometric composition, its sharp variability and irregular bedding (sometimes absent).
• Lake with a uniform granulometric composition and finely dispersed. All clay minerals are present in such clays, but kaolinite and hydromicas, as well as minerals of hydrous Fe and Al oxides, predominate in clays of fresh lakes, while minerals of the montmorillonite group and carbonates predominate in clays of salt lakes. The best varieties of refractory clays belong to lake clays.
• Proluvial formed by time streams. Very poor sorting.
• River- developed in river terraces, especially in the floodplain. Usually poorly sorted. They quickly turn into sands and pebbles, most often unstratified.

Residual - clays resulting from the weathering of various rocks on land, and in the sea as a result of changes in lavas, their ashes and tuffs. Down the section, the residual clays gradually pass into the parent rocks. The granulometric composition of residual clays is variable - from finely dispersed varieties in the upper part of the deposit to uneven-grained ones in the lower part. Residual clays formed from acidic massive rocks are not plastic or have little plasticity; more plastic are clays that have arisen during the destruction of sedimentary clayey rocks. Continental residual clays include kaolins and other eluvial clays. IN Russian Federation widespread, in addition to modern, ancient residual clay - in the Urals, in the West. and Vost. Siberia, (there are also many of them in Ukraine), - having a large practical value. In the areas mentioned above, mainly montmorillonite, nontronite, etc. clays appear on the basic rocks, and on medium and acidic ones - kaolins and hydromica clays. Marine residual clays form a group of bleaching clays composed of minerals of the montmorillonite group.

Clay is everywhere. Not in the sense - in every apartment and a plate of borscht, but in any country. And if there is not enough diamonds, yellow metal or black gold in some places, then there is enough clay everywhere. Which, in general, is not surprising - clay, sedimentary rock, is a stone worn by time and external influence to the state of powder. The last stage of stone evolution. Stone-sand-clay. However, the last one? And sand can be deposited into stone - golden and soft sandstone, and clay can become brick. Or a person. Who's lucky.

Clay is colored by the stone-creator and salts of iron, aluminum and similar minerals that are nearby. Various organisms multiply, live and die in clay. This is how red, yellow, blue, green, pink and other colored clays are obtained.

Previously, clay was mined along the banks of rivers and lakes. Or dug a hole specifically for it. Then it turned out to be possible not to dig clay on your own, but to buy it from a potter, for example. During our childhood, ordinary, red clay was dug out by ourselves, and noble white clay was bought in shops for artists or, especially pure, in a pharmacy. Now in the nigga little shop selling cosmetics, there is certainly clay. True, not quite in its pure form, but mixed with various detergents, moisturizers and nutrients.

Our land is rich in clay. Roads and paths pierced in loamy soil in the heat become sources of dust, and in slush - solid mud. Clay dust covered the traveler from head to toe and added domestic work to the housewives, whose house stood by the road. Surprisingly, near the roads, dressed in asphalt, the dust did not decrease. True, from red, he became black. Ledum, densely mixed with clay, not only interferes with walking a pedestrian and driving a wheel, but also does not mind swallowing a boot or a jeep if you are in the mood.

Clay consists of one or more minerals of the kaolinite group (derived from the name of the locality Kaolin in the People's Republic of China (PRC)), montmorillonite, or other layered aluminosilicates (clay minerals), but may contain both sand and carbonate particles. As a rule, the rock-forming mineral in clay is kaolinite, its composition is 47% silicon (IV) oxide (SiO 2), 39% aluminum oxide (Al 2 O 3) and 14% water (H 2 0). Al2O3 And SiO2- make up a significant part chemical composition clay minerals.

Clay particle diameter less than 0.005 mm; rocks consisting of larger particles are commonly classified as loess. Most of the clays are gray, but there are clays of white, red, yellow, brown, blue, green, purple and even black. The color is due to impurities of ions - chromophores, mainly iron in valence 3 (red, yellow) or 2 (green, bluish).

Dry clay absorbs water well, but when wet it becomes waterproof. After kneading and mixing, it acquires the ability to take on various forms and retain them after drying. This property is called plasticity. In addition, clay has a binding ability: with powdery solids (sand) it gives a homogeneous "dough", which also has plasticity, but to a lesser extent. Obviously, the more sand or water impurities in the clay, the lower the plasticity of the mixture.

By the nature of the clay are divided into "fatty" and "skinny".

Clays with high plasticity are called "fatty" because when soaked they give a tactile sensation of a fatty substance. "Fatty" clay is shiny and slippery to the touch (if you take such clay on your teeth, it slides), contains few impurities. The dough "made from it is tender. A brick made of such clay cracks during drying and firing, and in order to avoid this, the so-called" lean "substances are added to the batch: sand," skinny "clay, burnt brick, pottery battle, sawdust and so on.

Clays with low plasticity or non-plasticity are called "skinny". They are rough to the touch, with a matte surface, and when rubbed with a finger, they easily crumble, separating earthy dust particles. "Skinny" clays contain a lot of impurities (they crunch on the teeth), when cut with a knife they do not give shavings. Brick made of "skinny" clay is fragile and crumbly.

An important property of clay is its relation to firing and, in general, to elevated temperature: if clay soaked in air hardens, dries and is easily rubbed into powder without undergoing any internal changes, then at high temperature chemical processes occur and the composition of the substance changes.

Clay melts at very high temperatures. The melting temperature (the beginning of melting) characterizes the fire resistance of clay, which is not the same for its various varieties. Rare varieties of clay require colossal heat for firing - up to 2000 ° C, which is difficult to obtain even in factory conditions. In this case, it becomes necessary to reduce the fire resistance. Reflow temperature can be reduced by introducing additives of the following substances (up to 1% by weight): magnesia, iron oxide, lime. Such additives are called fluxes (fluxes).

The color of clays is varied: light gray, bluish, yellow, white, reddish, brown with various shades.

Minerals contained in clays:

• Kaolinite (Al2O3 2SiO2 2H2O)
• Andalusite, disthene and sillimanite (Al2O3 SiO2)
• Halloysite (Al2O3 SiO2 H2O)
• Hydrargillite (Al2O3 3H2O)
• Diaspore (Al2O3 H2O)
• Corundum (Al2O3)
• Monothermite (0.20 Al2O3 2SiO2 1.5H2O)
• Montmorillonite (MgO Al2O3 3SiO2 1.5H2O)
• Muscovite (K2O Al2O3 6SiO2 2H2O)
• Narkit (Al2O3 SiO2 2H2O)
• Pyrophyllite (Al2O3 4SiO2 H2O)

Minerals contaminating clays and kaolins:

• Quartz(SiO2)
• gypsum (CaSO4 2H2O)
• dolomite (MgO CaO CO2)
• Calcite (CaO CO2)
• Glauconite (K2O Fe2O3 4SiO2 10H2O)
• Limonite (Fe2O3 3H2O)
• Magnetite (FeO Fe2O3)
• Marcasite (FeS2)
• Pyrite (FeS2)
• Rutile (TiO2)
• Serpentine (3MgO 2SiO2 2H2O)
• Siderite (FeO CO2)

Clay appeared on earth many thousands of years ago. Its "parents" are rock-forming minerals known in geology - kaolinites, spars, some varieties of mica, limestones and marbles. Under certain conditions, even some types of sand are transformed into clay. All known rocks that have geological outcrops on the surface of the earth are subject to the influence of the elements - rain, whirlwind, snow and flood waters.

Temperature fluctuations day and night, heating of the rock by sunlight contribute to the appearance of microcracks. Water gets into the formed cracks and, freezing, breaks the surface of the stone, forming a large amount of the smallest dust on it. Natural cyclones crush and grind the dust into even finer dust. Where the cyclone changes direction or simply subsides, huge accumulations of rock particles form over time. They are compressed, soaked in water, and the result is clay.

Depending on what rock clay is formed from and how it is formed, it acquires different colors. The most common are yellow, red, white, blue, green, dark brown and black clays. All colors, except black, brown and red, speak of the deep origin of clay.

The colors of clay are determined by the presence of the following salts in it:

• red clay - potassium, iron;
• greenish clay - copper, ferrous iron;
• blue clay - cobalt, cadmium;
• dark brown and black clay - carbon, iron;
• yellow clay - sodium, ferric iron, sulfur and its salts.

Various colored clays.

We can also give an industrial classification of clays, which is based on the assessment of these clays according to a combination of a number of features. For example, this appearance products, color, sintering (melting) interval, resistance of the product to a sharp change in temperature, as well as the strength of the product to impact. According to these features, you can determine the name of the clay and its purpose:

• china clay
• faience clay
• white-burning clay
• brick and tile clay
• pipe clay
• clinker clay
• capsule clay
• terracotta clay

Practical use of clay.

Clays are widely used in industry (in the production of ceramic tiles, refractories, fine ceramics, porcelain and faience and sanitary wares), construction (production of bricks, expanded clay, and other building materials), for domestic needs, in cosmetics, and as a material for artwork (modeling). Produced from expanded clay by annealing with swelling, expanded clay gravel and sand are widely used in the production of building materials(expanded concrete, expanded clay blocks, wall panels, etc.) and as a heat and sound insulating material. This is a light porous building material obtained by firing fusible clay. Has the form of oval granules. It is also produced in the form of sand - expanded clay sand.

Depending on the clay processing mode, expanded clay of various bulk density (bulk density) is obtained - from 200 to 400 kg / M3 and more. Expanded clay has high heat and noise insulating properties and is used mainly as a porous filler for lightweight concrete, which has no serious alternative. Walls made of expanded clay concrete are durable, have high sanitary and hygienic characteristics, and structures made of expanded clay concrete, built more than 50 years ago, are still in operation today. Housing built from prefabricated expanded clay concrete is cheap, high quality and affordable. The largest manufacturer of expanded clay is Russia.

Clay is the basis of pottery and brick production. When mixed with water, clay forms a doughy plastic mass suitable for further processing. Depending on the place of origin, natural raw materials have significant differences. One can be used in its pure form, the other must be sieved and mixed to obtain a material suitable for the manufacture of various trade items.

Natural red clay.

In nature, this clay has a greenish-brown color, which gives it iron oxide (Fe2O3), which makes up 5-8% of the total mass. During firing, depending on the temperature or type of kiln, the clay acquires a red or whitish color. It is easily kneaded and withstands heating of no more than 1050-1100 C. The high elasticity of this type of raw material allows it to be used for working with clay plates or for modeling small sculptures.

White clay.

Its deposits are found all over the world. When wet, it is light gray, and after firing it becomes whitish or ivory. White clay is characterized by elasticity and translucency due to the absence of iron oxide in its composition.

Clay is used to make dishes, tiles and sanitary ware or for crafts from clay plates. Firing temperature: 1050-1150 °C. Before glazing, it is recommended to work in an oven at a temperature of 900-1000 °C. (The firing of unglazed porcelain is called biscuit firing.)

Porous ceramic mass.

Clay for ceramics is a white mass with a moderate calcium content and increased porosity. Its natural color is pure white to greenish brown. Fired at low temperatures. Unfired clay is recommended, as for some glazes a single firing is not enough.

Majolica is a type of raw material made from fusible clay rocks with a high content of white alumina, fired at a low temperature and covered with a glaze containing tin.

The name "majolica" comes from the island of Mallorca, where it was first used by the sculptor Florentino Luca de la Robbia (1400-1481). Later, this technique was widely used in Italy. Ceramic trade items made of majolica were also called earthenware, since their production began in the workshops for the production of earthenware utensils.

Stone ceramic mass.

The basis of this raw material is fireclay, quartz, kaolin and feldspar. When wet, it has a black-brown color, and when raw fired, it is ivory. When glaze is applied, stoneware turns into a durable, waterproof and fireproof product. It can be very thin, opaque or in the form of a homogeneous, tightly sintered mass. Recommended firing temperature: 1100-1300 °C. If it is broken, the clay may crumble. The material is used in various technologies production of pottery trade objects from lamellar clay and for modeling. A distinction is made between red clay trade items and stoneware, depending on their technical properties.

Clay for porcelain trade items consists of kaolin, quartz and feldspar. It does not contain iron oxide. When wet it has a light gray color, after firing it is white. Recommended firing temperature: 1300-1400 °C. This type of raw material has elasticity. Working with it on the potter's wheel requires high technical costs, so it is better to use ready-made forms. This is a hard, non-porous clay (with low water absorption. - Ed.). After firing, porcelain becomes transparent. Glaze firing takes place at a temperature of 900-1000 °C.

Various trade items made of porcelain molded and fired at 1400°C.

Coarse-porous coarse-grained ceramic materials are used for the manufacture of large-sized trade items in construction, small-form architecture, etc. These grades withstand high temperatures and thermal fluctuations. Their plasticity depends on the content of quartz and aluminum (silica and alumina. - Ed.) in the rock. In the general structure there is a lot of alumina with a high content of chamotte. The melting point ranges from 1440 to 1600 °C. The material sinters well and shrinks slightly, so it is used to create large objects and large-format wall panels. When making art objects, the temperature should not exceed 1300°C.

This is a clay mass containing oxide or colorful pigment, which is a homogeneous mixture. If, penetrating deep into the clay, part of the paint remains in suspension, then the even tone of the raw material may be disturbed. Both colored and ordinary white or porous clay can be purchased at specialized stores.

Masses with colored pigment.

Pigments are inorganic compounds that color clay and glaze. Pigments can be divided into two groups: oxides and colorants. Oxides are the main material of natural origin, which is formed among the rocks of the earth's crust, cleaned and sprayed. Most commonly used: copper oxide, which in an oxidizing firing environment takes green color; cobalt oxide, forming blue tones; iron oxide, which, when mixed with glaze, gives blue tones, and when mixed with clay, engobes of earthy tones. Chromium oxide gives clay an olive green color, magnesium oxide browns and purples, and nickel oxide grayish greens. All these oxides can be mixed with clay in a proportion of 0.5-6%. If their percentage is exceeded, the oxide will act as a flux, lowering the melting point of the clay. When painting items of trade, the temperature should not exceed 1020 ° C, otherwise firing will not work. The second group is dyes. They are obtained industrially or by mechanical processing of natural materials, which represent a full range of colors. Dyes are mixed with clay in a proportion of 5-20%, which determines the light or dark tone of the material. All specialist shops carry pigments and dyes for both clay and engobe.

The preparation of ceramic mass requires a lot of attention. It can be composed in two ways, which give completely different results. A more logical and reliable way: apply dyes under pressure. A simpler and, of course, less reliable method is to mix the dyes into the clay by hand. The second method is used if there is no exact idea of ​​​​the final coloring results, or if there is a need to repeat some specific colors.

Technical ceramics.

Technical ceramics - a large group of ceramic trade items and materials obtained heat treatment masses of a given chemical composition from mineral raw materials and other high quality raw materials that have the necessary strength, electrical properties (high specific volume and surface resistance, high electrical strength, small dielectric loss tangent).

Cement production.

To make cement, calcium carbonate and clay are first extracted from quarries. Calcium carbonate (approximately 75% of the amount) is crushed and thoroughly mixed with clay (approximately 25% of the mixture). Dosing of raw materials is an extremely difficult process, since the lime content must correspond to a given amount with an accuracy of 0.1%.

These ratios are defined in the literature by the concepts of "calcareous", "siliceous" and "aluminous" modules. Since the chemical composition of raw materials is constantly fluctuating due to the dependence on geological origin, it is easy to understand how difficult it is to maintain a constant modulus. In modern cement plants, computer-assisted control in combination with automatic methods analysis.

Correctly composed sludge, prepared depending on the chosen technology (dry or wet method), is introduced into a rotary kiln (up to 200 m long and up to 2-7 m in diameter) and fired at a temperature of about 1450 °C - the so-called sintering temperature. At this temperature, the material begins to melt (sinter), it leaves the furnace in the form of more or less large clods clinker (sometimes called Portland cement clinker). Roasting takes place.

As a result of these reactions, clinker materials are formed. After leaving the rotary kiln, the clinker enters the cooler, where it is rapidly cooled from 1300 to 130 °C. After cooling, the clinker is crushed with a small addition of gypsum (maximum 6%). The grain size of cement lies in the range from 1 to 100 microns. It is better illustrated by the concept of "specific surface area". If we sum up the surface area of ​​the grains in one gram of cement, then, depending on the thickness of the grinding of the cement, values ​​from 2000 to 5000 cm² (0.2-0.5 m²) will be obtained. The predominant part of the cement in special containers is transported by road or by rail. All overloads are performed pneumatically. A smaller part of cement products is delivered in moisture- and tear-resistant paper bags. Cement is stored at construction sites mainly in liquid and dry states.

Auxiliary information.

Since the time of Babylon and Ancient Assyria, clay has been used to build houses and palaces. Previously, the technology for making building material was simple: clay was simply placed in prepared forms, compacted and dried in the sun. Clay huts were erected in Rus' and other Slavic states. To do this, it was mixed with straw and crushed with their feet. This mixture was then molded into bricks and dried in the sun. After that, walls were laid out from this material and then a roof made of reeds was arranged.

clay properties

An important quality of clay is its ability to accumulate heat. At night, she gives away what she has accumulated during the day. Clay for construction is an environmentally friendly material, and, moreover, it is an excellent antiseptic. In addition, it perfectly absorbs noise, therefore it is an excellent sound insulator. In the recent past, scientists have found that clay contains a very rare element - radium. It has great power in the treatment of human ailments and calms the nervous system. Clay is a plastic material, thanks to which it can take any shape. Different types clays differ in the diameter of its constituent particles, fat content, moisture level and composition.

adobe construction

In the southern regions of the country and in our time, this building material is often used. In such houses-huts, thanks to the excellent qualities of clay, it is warm in winter, and cool in the summer. To make adobe blocks, it is enough to take clay, sand and straw. There should be less clay than sand, just enough to glue sand and straw together. It is recommended to avoid taking clay soils with silt content. If it is not mixed with other components, building clay tends to crack. But if it acts as an astringent, then the products are strong and very durable. And such material as adobe possesses these qualities in full measure.

Using clay as insulation

Most often, in this capacity, clay is used to insulate the ceiling. In order to get a quality material, clay is mixed with sawdust. With this composition, not only the ceilings are coated, but also the heaps are laid out, applied to the walls. Before applying the resulting mixture of clay, sand and sawdust to the ceiling, its surface is lined with a film, which is fixed with a stapler. some owners lay cardboard under it.

The sawdust-clay solution is kneaded as follows: 4-5 buckets of clay are unloaded into a barrel and filled to the top with water. Then you need to wait until the clay is completely softened and mix it with water. Further, two buckets of the resulting mass are poured into the concrete mixer, sawdust is poured in such a volume that the consistency of thick sour cream is obtained. After that, a layer of this mixture is applied to the surfaces selected for insulation.

Since ancient times, man has used clay for his needs. It was the basis of building materials, they made dishes from it, used it for treatment. Clay is an integral part of the world in which we live, like earth, trees, water. Clay deposits are found all over the world. Some species are used as a component for the production of building materials. Other types of clay are used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. We are interested in the last clay, the one that can be used for healing and maintaining health.

What is clay made of?

Clay is a soft, loose earthy material containing particles smaller than 4 microns. Clay is formed as a result of weathering and erosion of rocks, which contains the mineral feldspar. During the weathering of feldspar under the influence of water, its composition changes and clay minerals are formed, such as kaolinite (the main mineral of kaolin clays) and smectite (the main mineral of bentonite clays).

Kaolinite has a flat, dense lamellar structure and consists mainly of silicate and aluminate.

Smectites, unlike kaolinite, have a four, six, octahedral structure, through which water freely penetrates, forming a gel. There are two main types. This is sodium and potassium bentonite, depending on the content of potassium or sodium in it.

Useful and healing properties of clay

Clay is one of the oldest remedies used by man to treat many diseases. Its beauty properties are passed down from generation to generation.

Depending on the minerals (silicon, iron, magnesium, calcium) contained in the clay, its color and properties may vary. Clay is able to absorb unpleasant odors, fight germs and bacteria, soothe pain, cleanse the skin, leaving it clean and smooth.

Clay can bring great benefits to the human body and maintain health. It is used in the treatment of dermatitis, rheumatism, it is able to relieve stress and calm. The chemical composition of clay gives this mineral substance truly unique healing properties. Here are just a few of its medicinal properties.

Antiseptic and bactericidal. Clay is a sterile complex that can create an environment that is not viable for the development of bacteria, inhibit their reproduction and is completely safe for humans.

Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Due to its ability to absorb heat, clay soothes and relieves inflammation. This property is used for burns, sprains, bruises, in cosmetology.

Remineralization. The finely dispersed structure of clay allows the release and absorption of minerals from it, which can be successfully used for joint diseases, fractures, osteoporosis, and anemia.

Adsorbent and antitoxic properties. The ability of clay to absorb a large amount of water allows you to draw out toxins, poisons from the body, especially water-soluble ones, and also reduce gas formation. At the same time, it "shares" the mineral composition with the body. This property of clay is used for poisoning, flatulence. The action of the well-known means "Smekta" is based precisely on this property of clay.

regenerating properties. Clay stimulates blood clotting and accelerates tissue regeneration (this applies only to clays containing aluminum).

alkalizing properties. The high content of the basic elements of the composition of the clay has an alkalizing effect on the human body.

Tonic properties. The complex of minerals improves body functions and gives energy. The high calcium content, for example, helps to strengthen bones and give elasticity to tissues. Magnesium can take nervous tension and muscle fatigue. The high content of silica in clay is especially useful for anemia, chronic fatigue, weak immunity.

Types of clay

Clay is now available at any pharmacy or store. Its classification depends on the color of the clay, which in turn depend on the chemical composition, location of the clay deposit. In general, there are two main types of clay. These are kaolin clay and bentonite. Multi-colored clay belongs to kaolinic. Although bentonite may also vary slightly in color depending on the deposit.

Green clay. Green clay is about 50 percent silica and about 14 percent aluminum compound. It is alkaline and has strong anti-inflammatory properties. Such clay is most often used externally to treat eczema, acne, dark spots. It absorbs sebum well and is often used in cosmetology.

White clay. This type of clay contains a large amount of silicon dioxide, about 48 percent, and aluminum (about 36 percent). Often referred to simply as kaolin or white clay, it is considered the best clay of all for internal use. It removes fermentation in the intestines, has intoxication properties.

Unlike green clay, which can cause constipation when used internally, white clay, on the contrary, stimulates intestinal motility. When used internally, white clay absorbs bacteria and viruses, toxins that are present in the digestive system, reduces gas formation, which is useful for poisoning and bloating.

In addition, white clay relieves stomach pain caused by high acidity, heartburn and normalizes ph. It is also used to speed up wound healing and reduce inflammation.
when used externally, it can be used to make masks. It improves skin condition, removes wrinkles, peeling, cleanses the skin of excess sebum, tightens pores and tightens the contour of the face.

White clay is hypoallergenic and can be used to care for sensitive skin and even baby skin in the form of powder.

Red clay. The red color of the clay is due to ferric iron. There is practically no aluminum in this clay. It was used by the ancient Romans to treat joint pain. She treated horse injuries and washed them with this clay to prevent infections and diseases.

Today, red clay is used in cosmetology in many masks and creams. It can be used for sore gums: just brush your teeth and gums and then rinse your mouth well.
Red clay is recommended for sensitive delicate skin, with dermatitis, as it has good adsorbing properties, relieves irritation and pain.

This type of clay can be used for bruises, hematomas, muscle pain. It relieves swelling and pain. It is recommended to use red clay for those who often suffer from headaches, abscesses, boils, migraines, gout, as it improves blood circulation.

Yellow clay. The yellow color of the clay is due to the presence of iron and copper in it. It can be used for pain in the back, neck, spine. When mixed with green clay, it is used to treat joints, relieve pain, relieve fatigue, and restore muscles and ligaments. Sometimes it is used internally.

Gray clay. Such clay can be found under the name blue, blue clay. Although in fact it is closer to gray. The gray color of the clay is due to the high content of silicon dioxide. Its in it about 60 percent.

Inside, gray clay is used for stomach problems associated with increased production of gastric juice and intestines. It also removes excess fluid and has an alkalizing effect. This clay is also an excellent adsorbent, perhaps even better than green clay.

Since it contains almost 60 percent silica and about 20 percent aluminum, gray clay has good anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used for treatment both internally and externally.

Pink clay. Generally this is not separate view clay, but a mixture of white and red clay. But it can often be seen in the pharmacy. This clay has a balanced composition of iron oxide, mineral salts and silica. It is used in the form of masks and is suitable for all skin types.

Red clay cleanses the skin of toxins and excess sebum secreted. White clay relieves irritation and dryness. In pink clay, these two properties are combined.

It well stimulates blood circulation, exfoliates and cleanses the skin.

This clay is often used to make homemade scrubs, powders and soaps.

How to apply clay

Unfortunately, we sell clay only in the form of a powder and as a cosmetic product. Although in the same Asian countries, you can find other commercial forms. But it is still important to know how to use clay for various purposes.

Clay can be applied both inside and topically on the skin in the form of masks, poultices, compresses, dry powder. It is added to the bath. In this case, clay can be of different grinding.

Clay with larger particles is used only in the bath, including foot baths, for large compresses or dressings. Fine clay can be used for the same purposes. But besides this, such clay can be used inside.

When treating clay, you can add essential oils to it, depending on the problem you want to solve.

clay for oral administration

Oral clay is usually prepared in the evening to drink on an empty stomach. To prepare the solution, you need to dilute a tablespoon of clay (without top, at the level of the edge of the spoon) in 3/4 cup of water.

The clay is stirred wooden spoon and, covered with a napkin or gauze, leave until the morning.

At first, you can drink only that part of the water that is on top, leaving a clay sediment. The course of admission is 1 month. Clay water can be drunk with anemia, intestinal and gastric problems, to cleanse the body of toxins.

Dried clay in the form of sticks. Clay sticks are sold in India, China, countries South America. Use them for resorption, not for drinking.

Clay tablets. Essential oils can be added to such tablets. They are also dissipated. During the day, you can take up to 3 tablets. Course - 1 month.

External application. To prepare clay in the form of a poultice, it is mixed only in wooden, ceramic or glassware and a wooden spoon. Never use metal utensils.

For cosmetic purposes

Use the same utensils as for preparation for external use. Pour clay with mineral or purified water so that it is completely covered with water.

Leave for about an hour and then add the essential oil. The amount of clay and essential oil varies depending on the purpose of use. Stir only with a wooden spoon.

Next, apply clay to the face. If clay is used to treat skin diseases, then spread evenly on gauze or a napkin. Leave from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Fix the bandage so that it does not mix.

Clay treatment at home

The use of clay for healing is not a new practice. In some countries, it still occupies not the last place. Although clay is better known in our country and used for cosmetic purposes. Therefore, here are some recipes on how to use clay to treat certain diseases.

Circulatory disorders. Prepare a clay talker, in which you can add cypress essential oil, and apply to diseased veins. In addition to cypress, you can add essential oil of geranium, lemon, for example, 3 drops of geranium and 5 drops of lemon oil.

Intestinal spasms, colic, convulsions. Dilute the clay, but not liquid. Wrap in a napkin and heat in a water bath. Apply a compress to the abdomen. Do such a compress no earlier than half an hour after eating. Essential oils of Roman chamomile, lavender, lemon balm, fennel can be added to the clay in this proportion: 3 drops of chamomile, 2 drops of lavender and lemon balm, 3 drops of fennel.

With insomnia. Make a hot compress with clay in the area of ​​the spine and neck, adding 4 drops of bitter orange essential oil, 3 drops of Roman chamomile, 4 drops of lavender oil to it.

The use of clay in the form of a bandage. This is done when you need to apply clay to a large area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe skin. It is necessary to cut gauze or cloth corresponding to the width of the area on which the clay will be applied. Prepare a clay mash and soak a cloth in it.

At a temperature. At a temperature, a cold talker is made of clay. Add 2 drops of bergamot essential oil, 1 drop of mint and eucalyptus essential oils to the solution. Apply a moistened bandage to the forehead and leave for several hours.

With inflammation of the mouth and gums. For this, rinsing with a solution of clay is used, which is insisted for at least 2 hours. Stir the clay well before rinsing. After rinsing, rinse your mouth well with water.

Clay baths. Baths can be done either for the whole body, or just for the arms or legs. You can do a sitz bath. To prepare a bath, dilute 500 grams of clay in water. You can add an essential oil, depending on the purpose of use. Since clay can clog the drain, it is still best to do sitz baths or use a separate tub.

For rheumatism, add 8 drops of juniper essential oil and 2 drops of laurel oil to a clay bath.

For physical fatigue: 7 drops of rosemary essential oil and 2 drops of thyme oil.

You need to take baths for no more than 15-20 minutes and do them every other day.

Ointment with clay

To prepare the ointment, finely dispersed clay is used. You can dilute it with a decoction of medicinal herbs or hydrolat. Essential oils are also added. For medicinal ointments, green clay or bentonite is usually used. For cosmetics - white kaolin

Clay for the face. Clay masks

Clay is used in many cosmetic procedures: body wraps, scrubs, hair masks. But the most commonly used method is face masks.

To prepare a face mask, you need to mix 10 grams of clay with 10-15 ml of liquid (it can be herbal decoctions, just water or flower water). For oily skin to dilute the clay, you can use fruit juices or vegetables such as tomato, cucumber, lemon or orange juice. For dry and normal skin, milk, honey, olive or other cosmetic oil, egg yolks are suitable.

Mix to a paste. The mask is applied for 20-30 minutes and then washed off with warm water. After the mask, apply a moisturizer.

For oily skin, you can add 1 drop of lemon essential oil and 2 drops of lavender oil to the mask.

For dry skin, 1 drop of sweet orange and 2 drops of sandalwood.

Clay as a powder. Clay can be used as talc. It is great for treating ulcers, wounds, eczema, and is able to soothe just irritated red areas of the skin.

In addition, clay acts as a deodorant, absorbs excess fat, helps relieve irritation and heal.

Clay for cellulite

With puffiness of the skin, make such a compress: 5 drops of lemon juice, 4 drops of lemon balm essential oil, 2 drops of oregano oil. Apply a compress to the legs and buttocks.

In case of circulatory disorders: 4 drops of geranium essential oil, 4 drops of cypress oil, 3 drops of rosemary oil.

For thickened peel: 6 drops of bitter orange essential oil, 2 drops each of cedar and ginger oils.

The use of clay, even just for purely cosmetic purposes, will allow you to preserve the beauty of your skin for a long time and prolong youth.

Different types of clay can be mixed with each other. This will only enhance the mutual action of the clay.