materialsceramic

Ceramics are inorganic, non-metallic solids comprising metal, non-metal or metalloid atoms held in ionic and covalent bonds. The atoms are typically organized in crystal structures. Common examples of ceramics include earthenware, porcelain, and bricks. They are formed by the action of heat and subsequent cooling. Traditional ceramics, such as pottery and refractories, are derived from clay minerals. Modern ceramics, often referred to as advanced ceramics or engineering ceramics, are synthesized from highly purified compounds like oxides, carbides, and nitrides. These materials are known for their exceptional hardness, high melting points, chemical inertness, and electrical insulating properties. However, they also tend to be brittle. Their applications span a wide range, from everyday items like tableware and sanitaryware to high-tech uses in aerospace, electronics, and medical implants. The processing of ceramics typically involves mixing raw materials, shaping them into the desired form, and then firing them at high temperatures in a kiln, a process known as sintering. This high-temperature treatment causes particles to bond together, resulting in a dense and strong material. Advances in ceramic science continue to lead to new materials with tailored properties for specific demanding applications.