A comparison of methods for the determination of iron in clays and related ceramic materials

Iron is always present in clay and ceramic products. This element has a definite effect upon the properties of substances containing it, hence it is important for the ceramist to know the exact amount of this element present in a ceramic material. Many methods have been devised for the precise determination of iron, both in large and small amounts. Of the many methods used, the American Society for Testing Materials has listed only two for the examination of clays, refractories, and similar material...However the amounts of iron for which these methods are most suitable are not given. Nor does the literature state which of the several methods is most suitable for determining the iron content of a given type of a ceramic material. Because of these facts, a study of the listed methods for the determination of this element was made and the amount of iron which was most suitable for a quantitative examination by each method was determined --Introduction, page 1-2