Developing Medium Range Temperature Glazes Using Locally Sourced Raw Materials
Abstract
Ceramic raw materials utilization and development which include glazes are of great importance in ceramic production. Ceramic glaze materials when subjected to heat treatment become glassy, mechanically strong smooth to touch, hygienic, Impervious to liquids, and aesthetically appealing to the eyes. Glazes are imported into the country because there is no ceramic glaze manufacturing company in Nigeria. And because they are imported the glazes are very expensive. Large scale, small scale industries including studio potters depend on imported glazes. This situation has contributed immensely to good number of existing large and small scale industries to go moribund. The carbonated, zinc oxide, feldspar, flint and kaolin to produce medium range temperature glaze. The materials were tested in various sample glazes compounded. Sample number six was adopted and subjected to gloss firing using cone 3, (1140°C). The glaze melted well without crazing, crawling or pinholes. The study recommends the utilization and integration of locally sourced ceramic raw materials in glaze development. This will not only encourage ceramics. It will help to revamp the moribund industries. It will reduce production cost and sustain national development.
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