ABSTRACT
This study explored the workability of clay from Ankpa Kogi State of Nigeria for the production of earthenware and stoneware ceramics. This research investigated a manageable area around Ankpa with clay deposits that are locally put to use by local potters, but yet to be used in contemporary ceramic. This study started with preliminary investigation in order to get information on the clay deposit from the people of the area and was followed by field trip to clay deposit areas where clay samples were obtained. There are many clay deposits in and around Ankpa only three samples from Ankpa 1, Ankpa 2 and Odagbo were collected using the random sampling method. Physical and chemical analysis was carried out on the clay samples from the three deposits for their physical and chemical properties. The ceramics wares were produced using the methords of throwing, casting and hand-building. Sample wares produced were dried in the room atmosphere in the ceramics section of the Department of Industrial Design A.B.U Zaria. The wares were successfully fired up to glaze temperature of about 12600C using kerosene kiln in the ceramics section. The following finding were made, Ankpa 1 and Ankpa 2 clay samples are fire clay due to their non plastic nature. The tabular and dense nature of the Ankpa 1 and Ankpa 2 clay samples will not allow it to slake except the grain size is reduced. Odagbo clay sample is a secondary clay due to it plastic nature and high iron content. X ray diffraction analysis of Ankpa 1 and Ankpa 2 shows that they are brownish pink fireclay. The results of these analyses encouraged the utilization of the samples in the experimental production of earthenware and stoneware pieces. Clay body formulated from the clay samples was successfully used in the production of wares.