Evaluation of some ceramic clays from Zambia

This reports details the technical evaluation of ceramic clays collected during visits to Zambia in 1990 and 1991 by the author (Clive Mitchell). The clay samples included: Choma kaolin (Southern Province), Twapia kaolin (Copperbelt Province), Kapiri Mposhi kaolin (Central Province), Masenche clay (Northern Province), Leula clay, Misenga clay and Chikankata clay (Southern Province). The Choma kaolin was asessed to be an excellent source of ceramic-grade kaolin. The Twapia and Kapiri Mposhi kaolin are not suitable due to poor fired clour. The Masenche, Leula and Misenga clays were assessed to only be suitable for craft pottery or structural clay products such as bricks and tiles. The Chikankata clay has potential for use in the manufacture of clay stoves however further testing is required to confirm its suitability for this use.