Mineralogical, Chemical and Physical Properties and Suitability for Therapy of Peloids in Susurluk (Balikesir, Turkey)

Abstract

The mineralogical, chemical and physical properties of the peloids used for treatment and therapy purposes in the Susurluk province of Balikesir were investigated for their suitability. Morphological characteristics, mineral species and composition and chemical composition of the peloids were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and ICPEAS, respectively. The peloids are composed of clay-silt-sized material and are generally composed of clay minerals (smectite, illite and kaolinite) calcite, quartz, feldspar and rarely gypsum, halite and more rarely pyrite minerals. Due to mineralogical composition controls the physical properties (viscosity, consistency limits, surface area, abrasivity, thermal properties, etc.) of the peloids have been examined. The peloids are high plastic and semi-rigid properties, with a cation exchange capacity of 28 meq / 100g and a BET surface area vary from 17 to 34 m2 / g, show similar viscosity and thixotropic properties as well as good fluidity. It has been determined that the peloids can maintain the heat for 15-20 minutes according to the original cooling values and the cooling kinetics, but the specific heat values are low. It has been determined that abrasive capacities may be partly a risk of skin starch, and water absorption and oil absorption capacities are close to natural peloids. According to the abovementioned properties, it is found that peloids used in the baths are not suitable for grain size and low clay content, chemical composition may not cause any problem and it can be used in therapy for some muscle problems in term of heat capacities.