Emalia

Emalia is a term that in Polish and some other languages designates enamel, a vitreous coating fused to a surface by high-temperature firing. It protects substrates and provides color and a glossy finish; it is used on metals, ceramics, and glass.

Enamel formulations consist of glass frit with colorants and stabilizers. When fired, the frit fuses to the substrate, creating a hard, non-porous layer that is durable and corrosion-resistant. Enamel may be opaque or translucent and can have glossy, matte, or metallic finishes.

Applications include cookware, jewelry, pottery, sanitary ware, tiles, and laboratory equipment. In ceramics, enamels yield vibrant colors; on metal, enamel coatings protect against corrosion and wear.

Production involves applying a slurry or dry powder to a prepared surface and firing at high temperature, typically 700–900°C, depending on composition. Quality concerns include crazing, pinholes, blistering, and adhesion problems.

In addition to the material sense, emalia may appear as a brand name or geographic reference in various languages, particularly Polish usage for enamelware and decoration.