2.7.5. X-ray Fluorescence (XRF)

XRF was used for elemental analysis of the samples. Samples were dried at 100 ◦C and roasted at 1000 ◦C to determine mass loss on ignition. In addition, 1 g of the sample was mixed with 6 g Lithumtetraborate flux and fused at 1050 ◦C to form a stable fused glass bead. Analysis was conducted using a Thermo Fisher ARL Perform 'X Sequential instrument (Massachusetts, USA). Samples were characterised using UNIQUANT software.

### **3. Results and Discussion**

## *3.1. Particle Size Analysis*

The particle size of the raw material mixtures as well as that of the sample obtained is depicted in Tables 1 and 2, respectively. It was noted that overall particle size reduction occurred for most samples, with the exception of S3, with an increase in the grinding time as expected. This could possibly be attributed to the formation and agglomeration of Ca-Al LDH present within the sample. Raw material mixtures exhibited large D90 measurements that could be attributed to immediate reaction with water, as well as agglomeration.




