Reduction of the porcelain firing temperature by preparation of the raw materials

An innovative way of reduction of firing temperature of porcelain tableware is reached by preparation of raw materials down to submicron- and nanoscaled powder for higher reactivity. In this study a common slurry was ground in an agitator ball mill from d(50) = 5.0 mu m to 0.9 mu m, green bodies were prepared, and glost firing was simulated in a dilatometer. The sintering temperature has been decreased by approximately 180 degrees C. A reflection between ball mill and agitator ball mill regarding the grinding cost shows no difference which means that the ball mill could be replaced. The energy consumption during the grinding process will be discussed regarding to energy savings resulting from reduced firing temperature. Furthermore a comparison between experimental and literature data will be done. The effect of grinding of raw material is finally evaluated concerning sintering behaviour and material properties. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.