Sedimentology, mineralogical evaluation and industrial applications of the Pleistocene Al-Yamaniyyah clay deposits, near ʹAgaba, Southern Jordan

Three clay horizons of different physical properties and different thicknesses were recognized in the study area. These horizons are intercalating with silt, sand and segregated salt crystals. The sediments were deposited during the Pleistocene in a nearshore environment and separated from sea by old reef terraces. Two alluvial terraces were found. The Al-Yamaniyyah clayey deposits contain considerable amounts of clay minerals, namely for the greater part smectite, vermiculite and kaolinite. Illite/mica, chlorite and goethite were present as minor constituents. The studied clay materials have indicated to be suitable for potteries and heavy ceramic products.