Effect of spodumene addition on pyroplastic deformation of porcelain stoneware

Abstract

Lithium aluminosilicates, such as spodumene, have been used as raw materials in the production of thermal shock resistant whiteware and sanitaryware. The presence of spodumene causes enhancement of mullitization and imparts better physical and mechanical properties to ceramics. In this study, the influence of Li2O-content on the properties of a standard porcelain stoneware body was investigated. Sodium feldspar was replaced by the spodumene in varying amounts (up to 4 wt. %). The results showed a significant microstructural improvement, the presence of spodumene which, during firing, allows the development of a low viscosity liquid phase with a decrease of closed porosity, also with increasing bulk density and bending strength.