Evaluation of basalt cutting waste in coloring of different ceramic glaze compositions

Abstract

Color effects in ceramic glazes play a decisive role in the aesthetic and attractiveness of ceramic pieces. The colorants used in glazes interact with the ceramic materials during the firing process, resulting in a wide range of fascinating colors and effects. Due to the natural properties of basalt such as high compressive strength and wear resistance, this natural volcanic rock is attracting a lot of attention when used in ceramic production processes. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of basalt cutting waste (BCW) obtained from a stone company in Kayseri, Turkey, on the color effect of ceramic glazes in combination with different frits. For this purpose, glazes were prepared in which BCW was incorporated in different weight percentages of 0-20 % together with different frits. The glazes were characterized by analyzing chemical, phase, and thermal behavior of BCW using X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and thermal microscopy, respectively. The prepared glazes were then applied to engobed wall tiles and fired at a temperature of 1,200 °C in a laboratory furnace. After firing, the glazed surfaces were subjected to color analysis, while the phase composition was analyzed by XRD. The microstructure analysis was carried out using electron microscopy (SEM/EDS). Increasing the proportion of BCW in the glaze compositions resulted in a change of the color of the finished surfaces from cream to yellow-beige tones. This study sheds light on the potential use of BCW as a coloring agent in the production of ceramic glazes.