Utilization of seashells in matte glaze preparation

In this study, the investigation of the optical properties and microstructural development of matte glaze compositions prepared with the addition of seashells was aimed. The seashells obtained from Black Sea beaches of Samsun, Turkey were characterized using XRF, XRD, FTIR, TG-DTA techniques, and heating microscope. The calcite-aragonite polymorphic transition was provided by heat treatment of seashell powders at 700°C for 1 hour and then, aragonite-based seashell powders were incorporated to matte glaze compositions up to 30 wt%. Firstly, four different types of fired body specimens (red clay, chamotte, white, and porcelain) were produced at 800ºC for 7 hour. Secondly, the prepared glazes were applied on surface of all fired bodies and then, all bodies were sintered at 1100ºC for 8 hour. Finally, coloring parameters and microstructural features of seashell added glazes were determined. The addition of seashells to glaze composition by 10 and 20 wt% resulted in higher transparency. The matte glaze was formed with increment of seashell content to 30 wt%. The more reduced fluidity of the glaze caused nonhomogenous matte appearance. As a result, it is possible to produce transparent glazes in eco-friendly and cost-effective way by addition of seashells into glaze composition in 20 wt%.