ceramische

Ceramische refers to ceramics or ceramic materials and products. In Dutch usage, ceramische is an adjective describing items made of ceramic materials or relating to the ceramic arts; the corresponding noun is keramiek.

The field of ceramics includes the production, study, and application of inorganic non-metallic materials that are typically hardened by firing. Ceramics are made from clay minerals and silicates and are shaped by molding, casting, or forming techniques before being fired in a kiln.

Classification: Depending on composition and firing, ceramics are commonly categorized as earthenware, stoneware, and porcelain (whiteware). Variants include tableware, sanitaryware, tiles, bricks, as well as advanced or technical ceramics.

Properties: Ceramics are typically hard, wear-resistant, and chemically stable, with high compressive strength and good heat resistance. They are often electrical insulators. A major drawback is brittleness and sensitivity to flaws, which can lead to fracture under stress.

Applications: Traditional uses include pottery, tiles, bricks, and dishes. Modern uses span construction materials, refractories, electrical and electronic components (dielectric and piezoelectric ceramics), biomedical implants, dental ceramics, and catalytic substrates.

History: Ceramics have ancient origins, with early pottery dating back tens of thousands of years. Notable traditions include Chinese porcelain, Middle Eastern glazed wares, European tin-glazed pottery, Delftware, and various native pottery cultures.

Etymology and usage: In Dutch, keramiek is the noun for ceramics, while ceramische is the adjectival form. The term is also used in academic, industrial, and art contexts to describe ceramic science and ceramic arts.