Structural characterization of mixed local material for a ceramic porcelain insulator

A novel type of ceramic porcelain insulator material was produced by mixing kaolin with zeolite. The composition was prepared by adding a controllable amount of kaolin ranging from 30 wt% to 100 wt% into the zeolite. Then a series of samples were sintered at 1200°C. The influence of the composition on the structural properties was studied in detail using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The results show that the microstructure of porcelain body is characterized by the presence of elongated mullite grains. It was found also that the decrease of the kaolin content in the porcelain body leads to a decrease in the crystalline phase of mullite. The analysis of the structural properties of such ceramics indicates that zeolite could not be recommended as an appropriate material for manufacturing of high-voltage ceramic porcelain insulators by mixing it with kaolin.