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Speciation analysis of chromium on natural water
Full text linkM.Sc (Chemistry)Department of ChemistryIndividuals residing in the vicinity face potential exposure to detrimental substances that could be present in the water from rivers and dams. Water pollution is a serious problem that the world is facing. Exposure to water pollution or contamination can occur through ingestion; drinking contaminated water; or the direct consumption of polluted water from taps, wells, rivers, dams, or other sources, which end up impacting human health and the environment. Determining the amount of chromium species present in water samples is therefore essential.
The purpose of this research was to speciate analysis of chromium in natural water samples obtained from the Dzindi river, Mutale river, Luvuvhu river, and Nandoni dam in the Limpopo province using atomic absorption spectrometry. Speciation is the study of an element's chemical forms in a sample, revealing diverse bio availabilities, toxicities, and behaviours. Total chromium, trivalent chromium, and hexavalent chromium are the main species of interest. Chromium in natural water is crucial due to its environmental and human health impacts. In trace amounts, Cr3+ is necessary, but Cr6+ is highly toxic and carcinogenic, endangering ecosystems and human health. The high solubility and mobility of Cr6+ in water, which raises the possibility of it contaminating drinking water sources and being absorbed by living things, led to the identification of this species as the most toxic one in this study. After long-term exposure, Cr6+ can result in serious health problems such as liver damage, lung cancer, and other conditions. This study's speciation approach comprised collecting water samples and separating and quantifying Cr3+ and Cr6+ using methods including inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry and flame atomic absorption spectroscopy.
The instruments that were used in this study, inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry, are particularly useful for chromium speciation due to their ability to accurately detect and quantify the total amount of chromium. Flame atomic absorption spectroscopy is employed in the analysis of total chromium and the hexavalent chromium concentration.
Then the samples were additionally examined for physicochemical parameters: pH, temperature, electrical conductivity, and total dissolved solids. The World Health Organization (2008), SANS
241 (2006), and Canadian Guidelines (2007) were employed as benchmarks for water quality for drinking reasons. Results indicate that water samples from Nandoni dam exhibited elevated physicochemical parameters, including total dissolved solids and electrical conductivity, throughout the dry and rainy seasons. The quantification of Cr by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry revealed increased concentrations during the rainy season compared to the dry season. The chromium values during the dry season ranged from 2.607 ± 0.134 mg/L - 4.613 ± 0.236 mg/L; during the rainy season, they ranged from 3.687 ± 0.174 – 6.803 ± 0.462 mg/L.
The water samples were analysed for the total Cr and Cr (VI) concentrations using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. The total concentrations of chromium in the water of the Dzindi river during the dry season were measured to be 2.406 ± 0.105 μg/L, while during the rainy season, they were found to be 3.651 ± 0.204 μg/L. Similarly, in Mutale River, the concentrations during the dry season were 3.531 ± 0.324 μg/L; during the rainy season, they were 4.401 ± 0.073 μg/L. In Luvuvhu river, the concentrations during the dry season were 2.803 ± 0.215 μg/L; during the rainy season, they were 5.013 ± 0.342 μg/L. Finally, in Nandoni Dam, the concentrations during the dry season were 4.245 ± 0.402 μg/L; during the rainy season, they were 6.304 ± 0.431 μg/L.
After conducting speciation analysis using flame atomic absorption spectroscopy, it was observed that hexavalent chromium's content was significantly high than trivalent chromium. The results of Cr (VI) in the Dzindi river during the dry season were 1.501 ± 0.092 μg/L, while during the rainy season, it was found to be 2.134 ± 0.143 μg/L. Similarly, values in the Mutale river were 2.021 ± 0.057 μg/L during the dry season and 3.704 ± 0.171 μg/L during the rainy season. In the Luvuvhu river, the values were 1.704 ± 0.142 μg/L in the dry season and 3.501 ± 0.184 μg/L in the rainy season. In conclusion, the values at Nandoni dam were 5.819 ± 0.158 μg/L during the rainy season and 3.434 ± 0.138 μg/L during the dry season. As the concentration of Cr (III) were found to be 0.905 ± 0.013 μg/L during dry season and 1.517 ± 0.061 μg/L during rainy season in Dzindi river, Mutale river were 1.510 ± 0.0267 μg/L during the dry season and 0.697 ± 0.098 μg/L during the rainy season. In the Luvuvhu river, the values were 1.009 ± 0.073 μg/L in the dry season and 1.512 ± 0.158 μg/L in the rainy season. Lastly, the values at Nandoni dam were 0.811 ± 0.264 μg/L during the rainy season and 0.485 ± 0.273 μg/L during the dry season as it was calculated the
difference between the concentration of total chromium and Cr (VI). Based on the data collected from all sample sites (Dzindi river, Mutale river, Luvuvhu river, and Nandoni dam), it can be inferred that the concentration of Cr is within the World Health Organization (2017) and South African Standard guidelines (2005), even though the water contains more Cr (VI) than Cr (III), therefore it is suitable for domestic uses.
Regularly monitoring chromium levels in water from all sampling locations is necessary to accurately determine the concentrations of different chromium species, especially the hazardous Chromium (VI) species, as it causes lung cancer. Examining seasonal variations can be accomplished across all the seasons. The municipality must enhance community awareness and educate residents about the impacts of water contamination.National Research Foundation (NRF
Thodisiso yau tsikeledzwa ha luambo lwa Tshivenda kha matabya a thelevishini fhano Afrika Tshipembe
No full textMA in TshivendaDepartment of African LanguagesLuambo ndi tshipiḓa tsha ndeme kha vhutshilo ha ḓuvha ḽiṅwe na ḽiṅwe. Fhano Afrika Tshipembe hu na nyambo dza fumimbili dza tshiofisi ho katelwa na luambo lwa tswayo. Naho zwo ralo, hu na nyambo dza tshiofisi dza fumimbili, hu ḓi vha na nyambo dziṅwe dzine dza takulelwa nṱha ngeno dziṅwe dzi tshi khou ṱukufhadzwa kana hone u dzhielwa fhasi.
Luambo lwa Tshivenḓa ndi luṅwe lwa nyambo dzine dza dzhielwa fhasi fhano kha shango ḽa Afrika Tshipembe, kha zwithu zwoṱhe ro katela u shumiswa phaḽamenndeni, kha vhubindudzi, matambya a theḽevishini, kha vhurereli na huṅwe fhethu hunzhihunzhi. Thaidzo ya ṱhoḓisiso iyi ndi ya u tsikeledzwa ha luambo lwa Tshivenḓa kha matambya a theḽevishini, hune naho ḽitambya ḽi ḽa Tshivenḓa hu vho pfhalesa dziṅwe nyambo u fhira Tshivenḓa tshone tshiṋe. U tsikeledzwa ha luambo ndi kale zwi hone fhedzi vhathu a vha zwi dzhieli nṱha ngauri ri khou tshila kha tshifhinga tsha zwino tshine hu ambya nyambo dzo fhambanaho.
Nḓivho ya ṱhoḓisiso iyi ndi ya u sengulusa u tsikeledzwa ha luambo lwa Tshivenḓa kha matambya a theḽevishini fhano Afrika Tshipembe, khathihi na u bvisela khagala zwiitisi zwine zwa ita uri luambo lwa Tshivenḓa lu tsikeledzwe kha matambya a theḽevishini. Ṱhoḓisiso iyi i ḓo dovha ya sumbedzisa u pfhesesa nyambo dzine dza takalelwa nga vhaṱaleli na u sumbedzisa nḓila ya kushumiselwe kwa luambo kha matambya uri hu engedzwe tshivhalo tsha vhathu vhane vha ṱalela matambya.
U vusuludza nga ha vhundeme ha nyambo dza Afrika Tshipembe kha khasho (media) na u themendela milayo ine ya tikedza u imelwa hu linganaho ha nyambo kha matambya a theḽevishini fhano Afrika Tshipembe. Ṱhoḓisiso iyi yo ḓi tika nga thyiori ya “The social expectation theory”. Kha ṱhoḓisiso iyi hu ḓo shuma ngona ya khwaḽithethivi ine ya ḓo shumisa inthaviyu u kuvhanganya mafhungo u bva kha vhathu vhane vho dzhenela ṱhoḓisiso iyi vho tumbulwaho ho shumiswa lushaka lwa sambula ya non-probability
The determinants of the exchange rate volatility: A case study for South Africa
No full textMCOM in EconomicsDepartment of EconomicsThe dissolution of the Bretton Woods system in 1973 prompted numerous countries to shift from fixed to flexible exchange rate regimes, resulting in increased exchange rate volatility. In line with this global trend, South Africa adopted a free-floating exchange rate system in the mid-1990s and implemented an explicit inflation-targeting framework in the early 2000s. This policy transition, which emphasized the internal value of the rand, inadvertently led to increased exchange rate volatility. Excessive exchange rate volatility delays investment decisions, causing economic uncertainty and negatively impacting economic growth by impacting investment and investor confidence, productivity, consumption, international trade, and capital flows. Despite various factors suggested in the literature, there is no consensus on the primary causes of exchange rate volatility, making it a contentious issue. Notably, there is a paucity of studies examining this topic within the South African context. This study aims to contribute to the existing literature by analyzing the determinants of exchange rate volatility in South Africa, employing the Nonlinear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (NARDL) approach and utilizing quarterly data spanning from 2000 to 2023. The findings suggest that trade openness has a significant impact on exchange rate volatility, underscoring the need for policies that consider the complexities of trade integration and its impact on exchange rate stability. The findings suggest that trade openness has a significant impact on exchange rate volatility, underscoring the need for policies that consider the complexities of trade integration and its impact on exchange rate stability. Policymakers should advance trade liberalization, secure favorable agreements, and lower barriers to diversify export markets and reduce dependence on limited trading partners, thereby stabilizing the exchange rate
Navigating the Gap: Unpacking the Unemployment Experiences of Higher Education Youth Graduates in Collins Chabane Municipality in the Limpopo Province
No full textMPHDepartment of Public HealthIn the past few years, graduate unemployment has considerably increased in South Africa and around the world. The rising unemployment rates among unemployed youth graduates have impacted communities' quality of life.
The main purpose of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of higher education graduates in Collins Chabane Municipality, in the Vhembe district of the Limpopo province. The study area for the proposed study was chosen to be a selected community in Collins Chabane municipality in Limpopo, which has a predominantly African population. The community was chosen because, like many communities in South Africa, it is struggling greatly with the unemployment of recent graduates. The researcher used a qualitative approach and a phenomenological case study research design to obtain an in-depth understanding of the research topic. The population is comprised of unemployed graduates between the ages of 21-35. A non-probability purposive and snowball sampling technique was utilized in the proposed study to select the participants.
Semi-structured in-depth face-to-face individual interviews were used to collect data from the participants. The researcher intended to interview 15 participants, comprising both males and females; however, the sample size was determined by data saturation. A pre-test study was conducted to test the applicability of the research measures to ensure trustworthiness. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was applied to analyze data, and finally, ethical principles were maintained throughout the study. Recommendations were based on the findings of the study
The impact of digital innovation on municipal service delivery: a case of Thulamela Local Municipality, Limpopo Province
No full textM. AdminDepartment of Public and Development AdministrationThe world has reached an era of digital ubiquity where public institutions are required
to embrace the use of computers and the latest operating machines and adopting
innovative methods to improve municipal service delivery. The study seeks to examine
the impact of digital innovation on municipal service delivery in the Thulamela Local
Municipality, Limpopo Province. Digital innovation is concerned with using modern
technologies or developing new strategies to improve municipal services by
municipalities. South Africa is characterized by continued challenges such as service
delivery backlogs that result in protests and social unrests. The new digital age has
brought an opportunity to change and influence effectiveness on public institutions
especially, local municipalities. The use of technology and new approaches affect the
duties of institutions, forcing them to work smarter instead of working hard. This
approach would improve the productivity of the local sphere of government and raises
the value of the services provided to communities.
The study adopted a qualitative approach to understand the impact of digital
innovation on municipal service delivery. The researcher used qualitative research
method as well as descriptive research design as an approach to solve the research
question. In addition, interviews were used as data collection methods. A sample was
taken from the employees of Thulamela Local Municipality as the focus group of this
study. The researcher adopted a non-probability purposive method to select the
sample subjects. Thematic analysis was utilized to analyse data, discussed in a
narrative form. The researcher adhered to the ethical conduct of research
Ambient air pollution monitoring, modelling and human health risks in Thulamela Municipality, Vhembe District of Limpopo Province, South Africa
No full textPhDENVDepartment of Geography and Environmental SciemcesAmbient air pollution is a pressing global environmental concern, with pollutants from natural and anthropogenic sources contributing to deteriorating air quality. This research investigates the impact of sulfur dioxide (SO₂), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ), carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) on human health and the environment. PM2.5 in particular is a significant public health risk linked to respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. The study focuses on Thulamela Local Municipality (LM) in Limpopo Province, South Africa, a region with diverse semi-urban and rural environments, where air quality data is limited despite ongoing urbanisation and economic growth. Given the lack of comprehensive baseline data, this study aims to quantify, monitor, and model air pollution while assessing its potential health impacts. This research integrates the development of an emission inventory for criteria pollutants (SO₂, NOₓ, CO, PM2.5, and PM₁₀), real-time PM2.5 monitoring using Dylos DC1700 low-cost sensors (LCSs), PM2.5 dispersion modelling with AERMOD, health risk assessment (HHRA), and machine learning-based predictive modelling. By evaluating pollution sources, exposure risks, and predictive trends, the study provides critical insights to inform air quality management strategies in semi-urban settings.
This study developed the first-ever 10-year vehicle emission inventory (VEI) for criteria pollutants (SO₂, NOₓ, CO, PM2.5, and PM₁₀) in Thulamela Local Municipality (LM), South Africa. In addition, it produced the first comprehensive bottom-up emission inventory for the year 2021, quantifying total SO₂, NOₓ, CO, PM2.5, and PM₁₀ emissions from two major anthropogenic sources: vehicular emissions and residential wood combustion (RWC). The results indicated annual emissions of 66.3, 1821.7, 21002.6, 2348.7, and 2649.3 tonnes, for SO₂, NOₓ, CO, PM2.5, and PM₁₀, respectively. RWC contributed over 96% of PM2.5 and PM₁₀ emissions, while NOₓ (84%) and SO₂ (60%) originated primarily from vehicular sources. The spatial analysis revealed that emissions were highest in the southwest and northwest, where population density and human activities were most concentrated. A one-year PM2.5 monitoring campaign (March 2021 – February 2022) was conducted at 14 sites, covering urban, suburban, and rural areas. The strong correlation (R² = 0.75) between Dylos and reference monitors (GRIMM EDM180) confirmed the reliability of LCS performance for PM2.5 measurements. The study found that annual PM2.5 concentrations exceeded both WHO guidelines and SA NAAQS, except at one site. Monthly trends showed higher PM2.5 levels from May to September, with diurnal peaks from 6–8 am and 6–8 pm, primarily influenced by traffic emissions and residential wood combustion. The bivariate polar plot (BVP) analysis identified pollution hotspots near traffic intersections, residential areas, and commercial zones. The study identified significant spatial and temporal variations in PM2.5 levels across different monitoring sites, with higher
concentrations in suburban areas than rural ones due to vehicular emissions and wood-burning. VTV2 recorded the highest annual concentration (32.3 μg/m³), while RL4 had the lowest (19.1 μg/m³). The average seasonal PM2.5 levels, despite differences, consistently exceeded air quality guidelines, except in summer for specific locations. The results also showed that evening PM2.5 concentrations were generally higher than morning peaks, highlighting significant differences in pollution levels across the area.
Using AERMOD, PM2.5 dispersion was modelled to assess spatial patterns and regulatory compliance. Results showed that pollution hotspots exceeded SA NAAQS (40 μg/m³ daily, 20 μg/m³ annually) and WHO standards (15 μg/m³ daily, 5 μg/m³ annually), with the highest daily PM2.5 concentration (49.2 μg/m³) in densely populated areas. Model validation comparing modelled and monitored PM2.5 showed systematic underestimation (R² = 0.176, negative fractional bias), indicating unaccounted sources such as biomass burning, unpaved roads, industrial activities, and agricultural emissions. At Lunungwi village (RL receptor group), the modelled hourly PM2.5 concentration (47.12 μg/m³) exceeded the observed value (32.27 μg/m³, FAC2 = 0.25), indicating localised overestimation. Daily peaks aligned with morning and evening rush hours. At the same time, monthly trends from May to September reflected seasonal variations and increased residential wood combustion, while a notable decline in July 2021 was due to COVID-19 lockdown restrictions, highlighting the impact of reduced human activity on air quality. Although AERMOD has limitations in accounting for some emission sources, it effectively identified pollution hotspots, offering valuable insights for policy interventions and air quality management.
The study further assessed long-term exposure and health risks using the HHRA model, focusing on risk characterisation. The USEPA health risk assessment revealed that PM2.5 exposure posed both non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks, with infants and toddlers being the most vulnerable. Hazard Quotient (HQ) values exceeded safe limits (1.10 in winter) due to high PM2.5 levels in colder months. Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR) values surpassed the acceptable threshold (10⁻⁴) for all age groups, with adults facing the highest long-term cancer risks (2.35 × 10⁻¹). These findings emphasise the urgent need for air pollution control measures, particularly in areas with high residential fuel combustion and vehicular emissions.
To enhance PM2.5 predictions, machine learning models were applied using meteorological variables. Random Forest (RF) outperformed Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) and Polynomial Ridge Regression (PRR), with the highest R² (0.80) at VP4 for site-specific predictions and 0.604
for area-wide estimates. Seasonal performance showed better RF accuracy in winter (R² = 0.58, RMSE = 2.10 μg/m³) than in summer (R² = 0.45, RMSE = 4.72 μg/m³), reflecting the impact of seasonal meteorology on PM2.5 dispersion.
In conclusion, this research provides a holistic approach to quantifying air pollution sources, exposure risks, and predictive modelling in Thulamela Municipality. The study highlights urgent public health risks and the need for stronger air quality regulations, improved monitoring networks, and targeted mitigation strategies by establishing a clear link between air quality and human health. The findings underscore the need to expand emission inventories, refine meteorological inputs, and integrate multi-pollutant assessments to develop a comprehensive air quality management strategy. To address identified challenges, the study proposes mitigation strategies, including eco-friendly phytoremediation techniques, promotion of cleaner cooking and transport technologies, and urban planning measures to minimise exposure in densely populated areas. By combining scientific research with practical applications, this work aims to support sustainable air quality management, improve public health, and contribute to a healthier environment.Eskom Power Plant Engineering Institute (EPPEI), North-West University and the University of Venda Research and Publications Committee (RPC
Impact of community sports programs on youth mental health in Vhembe District, Limpopo Province
No full textMPH (Health Education and Health Promotion)Department of Public HealthCommunity sports programs have been shown to bring better outcomes across the
lifespans of youth regarding physical, mental, social, and emotional health. They also
built social relationships, developed coping mechanisms, and promoted mental
resilience, highlighting the collective benefits of sports engagement for youth's
mental health. This study aimed to determine the impact of community sports
programs on youth mental health in Vhembe District. The study used a quantitative
research strategy and a descriptive cross-sectional design. The target population of
this study included all youth between the ages of 15-34 who participated in
community sports programs. A simple random sampling method was used to select
respondents. The validity and reliability of the instrument were strengthened by
adopting a standardized assessment tool from the International Olympic Committee
of Sport Mental Health. The researcher requested permission to collect data from the
royal council, coaches, and team managers. The data were collected using a selfadministered
questionnaire with close-ended questions from 150 respondents.
Collected data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences
(SPSS) V. 29.0. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such
as Frequency, multinominal logistic regression, Wilcoxon Signed-Rank and
Correlations. The level of significance was set at P<0.05. The researcher ensured
that research ethics were considered, including informed consent, permission,
confidentiality, beneficence, and privacy. Results, conclusions, and
recommendations were based on the findings, community sports participation is
strongly associated with improved mental well-being and social interactions, yet gaps
remain in skill development and teamwork enhancement. While sports programs
offer mental health support, additional interventions are needed to translate this
support into observable improvements. The study’s findings have practical
implications for program design and policy formulation, emphasizing the need for
integrated mental health support within community sports initiatives
Developing a Framework for User Acceptance of Biometric Authentication in Electronic Payment Systems in the Thulamela Local Municipality
No full textMaster of Commerce in Business Information SystemsDepartment of Business Information SystemsThe adoption of e-payment systems has revolutionised financial transactions, offering convenience, efficiency, and accessibility. However, concerns over fraud and security have necessitated the implementation of advanced authentication techniques, with biometric authentication emerging as a promising solution. Despite its potential, user acceptance remains a critical barrier to its broader adoption, influenced by factors such as privacy concerns, trust, and socio-cultural perceptions. This study explored the determinants of biometric authentication acceptance within e-payment systems within the Thulamela Local Municipality, aiming to investigate the determinants that enhance user adoption. A quantitative research approach was adopted, using a structured survey to collect data from 399 respondents. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including regression modelling, were conducted to assess key determinants of biometric authentication adoption. The study applied the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) as its theoretical foundation, integrating factors such as performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, and facilitating conditions. The findings reveal that performance expectancy and effort expectancy significantly influence adoption intention. While perceived ease of use recorded a high mean score, the unexpected negative coefficient of perceived usefulness suggests that usability outweighs traditional usefulness in shaping user perceptions. Additionally, economic and social barriers pose notable challenges to biometric authentication adoption. Based on the insights from the research findings, a framework for enhancing biometric authentication acceptance was proposed, addressing key determinants through improved usability, building intuitive and user-centric interfaces for biometric authentication systems, awareness campaigns, and infrastructure investment, among others. The study concludes that while biometric authentication holds significant potential in enhancing security and efficiency in e-payment systems, addressing socio-economic and cultural barriers is essential for broader adoption. The study contributes to academic discourse by expanding UTAUT’s application in biometric authentication research while offering practical recommendations for policymakers and financial institutions. Ultimately, this study provides a strategic roadmap for advancing secure, inclusive, and user-friendly biometric authentication in e-payment systems
Time series modelling of groundwater levels in a selected semi-arid catchment within Vhembe District Municipality, South Africa
No full textMaster of Earth Science in Hydrology and Water ResourcesDepartment of Earth SciencesThis study is aimed at modelling groundwater levels in a semi-arid catchment within Vhembe District Municipality, South Africa. Auto Regressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model and Seasonal Auto Regressive Integrated Moving Average with eXogenous variables (SARIMAX) model were used to model the interaction between groundwater levels, temperature, wind speed, evaporation, and rainfall. The unpredictable occurrence of rainfall and other weather conditions in semi-arid and arid regions has caused a restriction in simpler computations of groundwater levels. Historical hydrological data sets of groundwater level were used to model groundwater level and forecast with ARIMA model. Climatic variables like temperature, wind speed, evaporation and precipitation were employed as exogeneous variables of the SARIMAX simulations. The analysis of groundwater levels included the use of Sen’s slope estimator which showed significant fluctuations, with sharp declines, followed by stability and a subsequent increase over time. The ARIMA model’s forecasting of groundwater levels indicated a stable groundwater levels trend post-2016. The training data revealed historical fluctuations, while the test data showed a sharp increase before stabilizing. The SARIMAX model demonstrated a reasonable predictive accuracy for groundwater levels, incorporating significant predictors and seasonal patterns. However, diagnostic tests suggested further model enhancements could improve residual handling. Data stations were selected based on availability of long-term data and considering stations with minimal or no gaps. The data range of the study was 12 years from 2007 to 2018. Both ARIMA and SARIMAX models performed well in predicting groundwater levels. The inclusion of exogenous variables in the SARIMAX model offered a more nuanced understanding of data trends, making it a reliable tool for forecasting. The study findings showed that the groundwater levels in the Luvuvhu River catchment have a stable increase over time and also highlighted the issue of missing data in climatic variables like precipitation which prevented the SARIMAX accuracy in forecasting groundwater levels. This study's insights are valuable for developing effective groundwater management strategies, especially when compared with other studies that highlight the importance of incorporating climate variability into such models for enhanced accuracy. The SARIMAX model's application in predicting groundwater levels is a significant step in environmental modelling, offering insights into subterranean water dynamics crucial for sustainable management.National Research Foundation (NRF
Suitability of Thulamela Clays for Use in The Ceramic Industry: A Case Study in Thulamela Municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa
No full textMENVSCI in GeographyDepartment of Geography and Environmental SciencesThis study investigated the suitability of Thulamela Municipality clay samples for ceramic applications by examining their physical, chemical, and mineralogical properties. A comprehensive analysis was conducted using various tests, including particle size analysis, Atterberg limits, X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The study evaluated the clays' strength, cracking, water absorption, and linear shrinkage during and after firing at different temperatures (300°C, 700°C, 800°C, 900°C, and 1150°C), aiming to assess their potential for ceramic use.
The study analysed the physical and chemical properties of clays from various locations. Sieve analysis revealed well-distributed particle sizes, while hydrometer analysis showed varying clay and sand content. Atterberg limit tests indicated high plasticity, and XRF analysis identified aluminium oxide (Al2O3), silicon dioxide (SiO2), and iron oxide (Fe2O3) as dominant chemical elements. XRD analysis detected quartz, kaolinite, and hematite as primary minerals, with variations between samples.
The study identified Ha-Matsika, Lwamondo, Muledane, and Dzingahe clays as having optimal ceramic properties, suitable for high-end applications like refractory ceramics and sanitary ware. These clays exhibited moderate to low water absorption rates and stable linear shrinkage behaviour. In contrast, clays from Ngwenani, Madadani, Tshilungoma, and Tshino are better suited for less demanding ceramic products. The study's findings have significant implications for the ceramic industry, highlighting the potential of local clay resources for producing high-quality ceramics.
The study recommends further research to improve the properties of certain clays (Ngwenani, Madadani, Tshilungoma, and Tshino). Utilising local clay resources can enable the ceramic industry to adopt sustainable practices, produce high-quality products, and promote environmentally friendly manufacturing.National Research Foundation (NRF