 Corresponding author: Thaddeus. C. Azubuike , Email: Copyright © 2024 Author(s) retain the copyright of this article. This article is published under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Liscense 4.0. Mineralogical, geochemical and physical properties assessment of clay deposits in Umuoke Obowo Southeastern Nigeria for industrial applications Thaddeus. C. Azubuike 1, * , Paulinus. N. Nnabo 2 , Norbert Okechinyere Osonwa 1 , Chukwuemeka Emmanuel Odoala 3 , Emma Onochie Nwabineli 1 and Victor Dorawa Koreyo 1 1 Department of Ceramic and Glass Technology, Akanu Ibiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. 2 Department of Geology, Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki Ebonyi State, Nigeria. 3 Department of Metallurgical Engineering Technology, AkanuIbiam Federal Polytechnic, Unwana, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2024, 21(03), 533–545 Publication history: Received on 22 January 2024; revised on 02 March 2024; accepted on 04 March 2024 Article DOI: https://doi.org/10.30574/wjarr.2024.21.3.0699 Abstract This study assessed the suitability of clay deposits from Umuoke, Obowo in southeastern Nigeria as local raw materials for industrial applications. Ten samples were collected from different mining pits across the locality. X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction and physical property tests characterized the clays based on geochemical composition, mineralogy and key attributes. The clays showed high silica (56.41%) and alumina (32.82%) contents typical of aluminosilicate clays. Iron oxide levels were moderately elevated (3.34% Fe2O3). Clay minerals kaolinite (18.9-37.0%) and illite (0.5-4.15%) occurred predominantly alongside non-clay minerals like quartz, feldspars and metal oxides. The clays exhibited high plasticity (avg. plasticity index 26.61%) enabling easy moulding and shaping. Porosity averaged 21.33% appropriate for refractories. Firing shrinkage (6.5-19.2%) and density (1.54-1.76 g/cm 3 ) were in acceptable ranges. Strength post- firing reached the 15 N/mm 2 minimum standard. Estimated refractoriness was 1680.22°C. Overall, the Umuoke clays demonstrate favourable chemistry, mineralogy and physical properties for refractories and structural ceramics applications pending some processing adjustments. Locally exploiting these deposits can promote import substitution, rural industrialization and sustainable development in Nigeria. Further pilot testing can optimize formulations and processes for targeted ceramic products. Comprehensive nationwide clay deposit prospecting is also recommended. The clays are suitable for refractory bricks, ceramic tableware, architectural ceramics, wall tiles, pottery items. Keywords: Geochemical composition; Mineralogy; X-ray fluorescence; X-ray diffraction. 1. Introduction Nigeria possesses vast, yet largely untapped, clay deposits with potential economic benefits (1). These industrial clay resources could significantly boost Nigeria's economy and reduce import dependency if properly assessed and utilized by local industries (2). Despite the government's historical focus on exploiting these resources, issues surrounding the perceived unsuitability of available deposits have impeded progress (3,4). To address this, further survey and characterization of Nigerian clay deposits are urgently needed to determine their properties and industrial applicability. The hindrance to beneficiation and application of Nigerian clays arises from misconceptions about their mineralogical, chemical, and physical characteristics (3,4). Despite past research demonstrating successful uses of local clays, exploitation remains below potential due to persistent perception issues. Consequently, a comprehensive survey and characterization of the diverse clay deposits across Nigeria are crucial for accurate assessment of their properties and industrial suitability.