The effect of particle size of body components on the processing parameters of semi transparent porcelain

Abstract The effect of the particle size of quartz and K- feldspar on the sintering behaviour and technical properties of semi transparent porcelain were investigated. This study was implemented by “the Factorial Experimental Design Method” to determine the effect of factors on semi vitreous porcelain production. The sintering behaviour of the samples were examined by using an optical dilatometer. The phases and their respective amounts in the microstructure were determined by way of Rietvelt X- ray diffraction (XRD) technique. Furthermore, the values such as shrinkage, water absorption, bulk density, porosity, thermal expansion, light transmission measurements were taken on the samples and the microstructures were studied by SEM. It was observed that as the particle size of quartz and K- feldspar decreased; the viscosity of the liquid phase fell down, the relative amount of secondary mullite crystals increased and the large pores were removed among the particles and the densification rate increased. Data were analysed by Minitab 13.20 software, and assessed in relation to the amount of glassy phase and its viscosity. The effect of K- feldspar particle size on the densification of porcelain is less than the change of heat treatment and quartz particle size.