Chemicals used in the ceramic industry

Chemicals Used in the Ceramic Industry and Their Applications

Chemicals used in the ceramic industry play a role in many stages, from shaping to firing, surface coating to coloring. These chemicals provide both aesthetic appearance and technical durability.

Main Chemicals Used in the Ceramic Industry

1.Raw Material and Filler Chemicals

These are chemicals that form the main structure of ceramics and provide formability.

• Kaolin (China Clay):Provides high whiteness and heat resistance

• Feldspar:Facilitates melting, increases glass phase

• Calcium Carbonate:Provides softness and binding properties

• Quartz (Silica):Provides hardness and durability

Usage:Used in the dough mixture in certain proportions according to the formulation

2.Binders and Plasticizers

Makes the clay more workable during shaping.

• Sodium Silicate:Provides binding properties

• CMC (Carboxymethyl Cellulose):Increases plasticity and binding strength

• Polyacrylates:Flow regulating additives

Usage:For obtaining smoother surfaces and forms in glazing and extrusion processes

3.Colorants and Pigments

Creates the decorative appearance of ceramic products.

• Iron Oxide (Fe₂O₃):Red, brown tones

• Cobalt Oxide (CoO):Blue tones

• Copper Oxide (CuO):Green and turquoise colors

• Manganese Dioxide (MnO₂):Purple and brownish tones

Usage:Applied in the glaze or directly to the surface, color is fixed during firing

4.Glaze and Coating Chemicals

Provides gloss, durability, and water resistance to the ceramic surface.

• BoraxandBoric Acid:Glass former with low melting point

• Zirconium Silicate:Opacity and gloss enhancer

• Lithium Carbonate:Thermal expansion control

• Ceramic frits:Ready glass mixtures

Usage:Applied to the surface before firing, vitrifies at high temperature to form a surface coating

5.Auxiliary and Process Chemicals

Increases efficiency and quality during production.

• Dispersants:Ensures uniform dispersion of additives

• pH regulators:Maintains mixture stability

• Defoamers:Prevents unwanted air bubbles

• Antimicrobial additives:Used especially in hygienic tile production

Usage:In dough and glaze mixtures, in machine systems