Kleivorming

Kleivorming is a Dutch term that can refer to two related but distinct concepts, depending on the context: the forming and processing of clay in ceramics, and the formation of clay minerals in geology and soil science.

In ceramics, kleivorming denotes the practice of shaping wet clay into objects. The process begins with preparing the clay (wedging) to achieve uniform plasticity and remove air. Forming methods include hand-building, wheel throwing, and slip casting. After shaping, pieces are dried to a leather-hard stage and often trimmed or refined. A subsequent bisque firing hardens the form, enabling glaze application. Glazing and a final firing seal the surface and enhance durability. Materials vary by desired properties, with common clay bodies including earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain. Important considerations include plasticity, drying shrinkage, moisture control, and joining techniques such as scoring and slipping. The choice of clay body, tools, and firing regime determines texture, strength, and permanence.

In geology and soil science, kleivorming can refer to the formation and development of clay minerals within rocks and soils. Clay particles form through weathering of silicate minerals and subsequent transport, deposition, and diagenesis in low-energy environments such as lakes, silled basins, or deep oceans. The resulting clays influence soil properties, including plasticity, cohesion, swelling, and permeability. Major clay minerals include kaolinite, illite, and smectite, each contributing different physical and chemical characteristics. Clays also play a key role in industrial applications, petroleum geology, and environmental engineering.

Because kleivorming can denote distinct processes in different fields, context is essential to determine the intended meaning.