A pugged clay problem

Hi all,
Yesterday I machine pugged some re-claimed clay (as usual), but noticed that
the clay's properties werent smooth. The clay could be 'torn' and was
ragged when done so.

When I pug my clay - I put it through the machine several times to make sure
its the same consistency throughout.

Although I wedged it really well afterwards I just couldnt get it to feel
right - almost as if it had lost its plasticity.

The throwing wasnt good either - the clay sounded as if it were a fizzy soft
drink, and when inspected, appeared to have very minute bubble holes in the
surface; almost like it had fermented.

I threw a bowl (almost to completion) and then the side actually tore apart
when extending the diameter of the rim.

I'm really careful over re-claiming clay and as far as I know - I've been
really careful not to contaminate the re-claimed clay in my slop bucket.

Anyone actually know whats going on here? I'm wondering if its going to be
safe to fire otherwise I risk losing my other ware!!

JM
(sporting yet another cold - sniff - where's those tissues)