Ceramic Proppants Based on Kazakhstan Natural Alumosilicate Resources

Abstract

The possibility is studied of preparing ceramic proppants based on natural Kazakhstan aluminosilicate raw material. It has been shown that Arkalyk refractory clay and Red October bauxite are highly basic aluminosilicate raw materials containing 48.3 and 62.O% Al₂O₃ (as calcined substance) respectively. Bauxite has a high content of iron impurity (22.3%). The effect has been studied of content of Red October bauxite and previously heat treated raw material on sintering and strengthening of ceramic composites with sintering firing in the range 1350 – 1500°C. It is established that the optimum for preparing lightweight ceramic proppants is raw material consisting of refractory clay with addition of 20 – 30% bauxite. The efficiency is demonstrated of raw material heat treatment at 1000°C for improving the density and strength of ceramic specimens. Lightweight aluminosilicate proppants with properties satisfying the specifications of GOST R 51761–2013 for aluminosilicate proppants are prepared for the oil and gas recovery industry.