Keramikrohstoffe

Keramikrohstoffe, or ceramic raw materials, refer to the mineral and substance components used in the production of ceramics. These raw materials are essential for creating various ceramic products, including tiles, bricks, porcelain, and advanced technical ceramics. The primary raw materials include clay minerals, feldspars, quartz, and various oxides, each contributing specific properties such as plasticity, strength, and thermal stability.

Clay minerals, such as kaolin, ball clay, and fire clay, are fundamental in ceramic manufacturing due to their plasticity and binding ability. Kaolin, for example, is prized for its whiteness and high melting point, making it suitable for porcelain production. Feldspars act as fluxes, lowering the melting temperature of ceramic mixtures and promoting vitrification, which results in dense, durable products. Quartz, or silica, provides hardness and chemical resistance to the ceramics.

In addition to these basic materials, other substances like (fluor)apatites, alumina, zirconia, and metal oxides are used to enhance specific properties such as hardness, corrosion resistance, or electrical conductivity. These materials are often processed to achieve the desired particle size and purity to ensure consistent quality in ceramic manufacturing.

The selection and proportioning of keramikrohstoffe depend on the intended application and desired characteristics of the final product. Environmental considerations and resource availability also influence raw material sourcing and processing methods.

Overall, keramikrohstoffe form the foundational ingredients in ceramic technology, enabling the development of a wide range of materials with diverse functional and aesthetic qualities. Their careful selection and processing are critical to the performance and sustainability of ceramic products.