Effect of particle size and temperature on the sintering behaviour of glass compacts

In this study the compaction and sintering behavior of waste glass powder compacts of different particle sizes was studied. Compacts of waste soda lime silica glass and borosilicate glass were made at various proportions from 106 microns and minus 75 microns powders in combination with 5% bentonite as binder for each glass type, after several trials to determine compatibility of particle sizes. The compacts were sintered at a temperature range of 600°C - 800°C and tested using the American Standard Test Methods for shrinkage, warpage, and absorption. Results show that there was no significant difference as regards the ratio of coarse to fine grains contained in the various compacts and the compacts exhibited better sinterability at a temperature range of 700°C - 750°C. The experimental findings suggest that these waste glass composites would be a potential alternative to clay for ceramic tile making.