keramiska

Keramiska is a Swedish adjective that means related to ceramics. In common usage it describes objects, materials or techniques that involve inorganic, non-metallic substances formed by shaping and usually firing at high temperatures. The term covers both traditional ceramic crafts, such as pottery, brick and tile production, and modern engineered ceramics used in technology, industry and medicine.

Typical raw materials include clays, kaolinite, feldspars and silica. Ceramics are manufactured by shaping the material (molding, slip casting, pressing), removing moisture, and firing at elevated temperatures to induce sintering and strength. Glazing may be applied to create a smooth, glassy surface and improve durability and appearance.

Properties of ceramics generally include high hardness, high wear resistance, and excellent heat and chemical stability, combined with brittleness and limited fracture toughness. They are usually poor electrical conductors, functioning as insulators, though advanced ceramic composites can offer enhanced or tailored electrical properties. Applications range from household items and tiles to refractories, cutting tools, dental ceramics and electronic or biomedical components.

Etymology: the word keramik comes from Greek keramikos “of pottery” via Latin ceramicus, and in Swedish the adjective keramisk/keramiska is used to describe relevant materials and products.