| The application of DT A in the stut~r ami derelopment of building materials ha~·e
been reviewed with special reference to the investigations carried out at the Ct.>ntral
Building Research lnstitwe.
Clay is the most important raw material for building industry. DT A has been
used for prospecting the material, identification of impurities in it and in finding out
the type of clay mineral present. This has been helpful in the manufacture of
bricks, tiles, lightlreight clay products and aggregates and poz:::olanas. DT A has
been used to find the correct firing schedule and in the study of thermal efficiency
of kilns. Clay characterisation as done by DTA .finds use in foundation engineering.
!vfam~facture o( portland cement requires selection of proper raw materials as
limestone and clay. The hydration products of cement can be studied by DT A.
The estimation of the slag content in unhydrated portland cement can be carried
out. Presence of lime and coated impurities like hematite and siderite present in a
magnesite restrict its use as a raw material for magnesium oxychloride cement.
Use of DT A has been made for preparing a partially calcined dolomite for the manufacture
of magnesium oxychloride cement.
DT A of limestone is helpful in the selection of proper raw materiaL as well as
in the calcination to produce a good lime. Hydration as 1•.:ell as carbonation of the
lime can be studied. DTA distinguishes between high calcium and magnesian limestones.
Use of gypsum for making plaster as well as estimation of constituents in
a white coat plaster is facilitated by the technique. Use of DTA has heen made i11
a restricted way for study of some organic building materials. |
