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This book details studies on thermal decomposition of Kaolinite. It also examines views on Kaolinite-Mullite reaction series, characterization of controversial spinel phase in Kaolinite-Mullite reaction series and explanation of DTA events of Kaolinite.

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The book depicts comprehensive studies on thermal decomposition of Kaolinite by different physico-chemical methods carried out by various scientists in last 100 years and results of the studies conducted by author in past 33 years. It also provides a critical analysis of different views on Kaolinite-Mullite reaction series, characterization of controversial spinel phase in Kaolinite-Mullite reaction series and explanation of DTA events of Kaolinite. The book helps both researchers and students to realise the new mechanism of transformation of Kaolinite to Mullite. The new reaction processes discussed in the book also help ceramic experts to synthesize Mullite grains in commercial way for production of Mullite porcelain and Mullite refractory.

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Introduction.- Thermal Evolution of Kaolinite.- Thermal Methods.- Extraction Techniques.- X-Ray Methods.- Electron Microscopy Study.- I.R. Study.- XRF Study.- Radial Electron Density Distribution (RED).- Density & Surface Area Measurement.- Crystallization Studies of Preheated Metakaolinite.- Thermodynamic Approach.- MAS NMR.- QXRD Studies of Phases Formed.- Scanning Electron Microscopic (SEM) Study.- Hot Pressing (RHP) Study.- NAOH Leaching Study.- Various Ways of Characterization of Alkali Leached Residue.- Meta Kaolinite Phase.- Spinel Phase.- Mullite Phase.- Reasons for First and Second Exothermic Peaks.- Cristobalite Phase.- Topotaxy in K-MK-AL/SI Spinel-Mullite Reaction Series.- Dehydroxylation Mechanism.- Final Conclusion on the Thermal Effects of Kaolinite.- Bibliography.

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Dr. Akshoy Kumar Chakraborty is a retired scientist from reputed institute "Central Glass & Ceramic Research Institute", Jadavpur, West Bengal, India. He has research experience of more than 38 years, out of which 33 years exclusively about Clay/Mullite. He has completed his PhD in 1976 from Calcutta University. He is a potential researcher in clay minerals field of Ceramics and made collaborative research work with national and international scientists.

Dr. Chakraborty is also the recipient of the "International Plato Award for Educational Achievement" by the International Biographic Centre, Cambridge, England. He has published many articles on studies of Kaolinite/Mullite in international peer-reviewed journals.

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