kerámia

Kerámia, or ceramics, refers to a broad class of inorganic, nonmetallic materials that are shaped and fired at high temperatures to achieve permanent properties. The term covers traditional pottery and porcelain as well as modern engineered ceramics used in industry and technology.

They comprise traditional ceramics (pottery, bricks, tile, porcelain) and advanced ceramics (alumina, silicon carbide, silicon nitride, zirconia). They exhibit high hardness and compressive strength, high melting points, chemical inertness, and often poor toughness; electrical insulation or semiconductor properties can occur in some compositions.

Manufacturing involves processing raw materials (crushing, blending), forming (slip casting, pressing, extrusion, wheel throwing), drying, and firing in kilns. Some products are glazed for surface functionality or aesthetics. Glass and glass-ceramics are related families, with glass being non-crystalline.

Applications include household goods (dishes, tiles), construction (bricks, refractories), electronics (dielectrics, capacitors), medical implants, aerospace components, engine and cutting tool materials, and protective coatings. The field continues to combine traditional crafts with high-performance materials for demanding environments.

History: Ceramics have been produced since ancient times, with early pottery and bricks found in Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley, and China. The development of porcelain in China and later industrial ceramics advanced several industries. Ongoing research aims to improve strength, toughness, and thermal properties while reducing costs.