Zinc Oxide-Based Ceramics
Zinc oxide-based ceramics have sustainable anti-bacterial properties. It is a highly-versatile yet complementary component which is used in a variety of refined ceramics collection.
Zinc oxide-based ceramics in the industry
Zinc oxide is known to have high-temperature stability, thermal conductivity, and heat capacity. The low coefficient expansion of heat expansion is one of the desirable properties in ceramics. That is why a lot of experts produce zinc-based ceramics.
Why does the ceramic industry need zinc oxide?
Zinc oxide is used in the preparation of enamels and frits in the ceramic industry. Moreover, it is used as a fluxing agent for an extensive range of ceramic objects.
The main role of zinc oxide in ceramic objects is to:
- Reduce the melting temperature
- Improve the intensity of the glazed finish
- Reduce the energy and equipment requirements
The component, zinc oxide works as a secondary fluxing agent because the low expansion property improves the elasticity of the glazed finish. Furthermore, it minimizes the viscosity change.
It also reduces the high melting temperature which helps to prevent shivering and crazing. The final results due to the addition of zinc oxide are amazing- increased thermal conductivity and decreased heat capacity.
However, zinc oxide does not only contribute to the internal factors and behaviors of the ceramic objects. It is an interesting yet useful component that enhances the glazed finish of the ceramic objects. Hence, improving their physical appearance.
What do we obtain by mixing zinc oxide with ceramic objects?
Among other physical and chemical benefits, we increase the heat capacity of the ceramic mixture. Similarly, we can’t miss adding a degree of electrical conductivity. The additive is quite necessary for the formation as the altered temperate range makes the composition stable.
Ceramic objects show a great change in viscosity that disrupts the changing process. However, zinc-based ceramics does not affect the cooking process and even prevents cracks from appearing on the objects. In general, zinc-based ceramics can be used for severe cooking.
Zinctimal, a type of zinc oxide is used to attain finish and brightness which is quite difficult to achieve when you are using other techniques or raw materials. If the manufacturers want a matte look or finish in the ceramic objects, there’s no better way to achieve it than to use zinc oxide in the mixture.
That being said, other oxides and salts can be used in the mixture to attain different tones, shades, and colors. However, you can’t alter the tone using zinc oxide. This component can only be used when one wants the natural finish of ceramic, with no colorful patterns.
Conclusion
Zinc oxide is a multi-functional component in the ceramic industry, thanks to its chemical and physical properties. It does not only reduce the heat capacity of ceramic objects but also improves the finish of the ceramic surfaces. However, one can’t attain colorful patterns on the ceramic surface by adding zinc oxide.
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