How is spodumene used in ceramic glazes?
In sanitaryware, spodumene is introduced by partially replacing other fluxes or ZnO or BaCO3 in a glaze formulation. The molten viscosity of the glaze is reduced and thus improves the coverage and surface smoothness. This is beneficial in dark-coloured sanitaryware glazes or in opaque glazes with low molten viscosity. The brilliance of the glaze colour increases and thus should aid in lowering the stain/colour content. In wall tile glazes, it is possible to partially replace frit with spodumene to aid in lowering the glaze cost and the firing cycle time. This should increase the productivity. In floor tile glazes for PE glazes, spodumene aids in efficient melting of the refractory raw materials without increasing the firing temperature.
