Applications of CMC in the Ceramic Glaze

Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is commonly used in ceramic glaze formulations for various purposes due to its unique properties. Here are some of the key applications of CMC in ceramic glaze:

Binder: CMC acts as a binder in ceramic glaze formulations, helping to hold together the raw materials and pigments in the glaze mixture. It forms a cohesive film that binds the glaze particles to the surface of the ceramic ware during firing, ensuring proper adhesion and coverage.

Suspension Agent: CMC serves as a suspension agent in ceramic glaze formulations, preventing settling and sedimentation of the glaze particles during storage and application. It forms a stable colloidal suspension that keeps the glaze ingredients evenly dispersed, allowing for consistent application and uniform coverage on the ceramic surface.

Viscosity Modifier: CMC acts as a viscosity modifier in ceramic glaze formulations, influencing the flow and rheological properties of the glaze material. It increases the viscosity of the glaze mixture, improving its handling characteristics and preventing sagging or dripping during application. CMC also helps control the thickness of the glaze layer, ensuring even coverage and uniformity.

Thickener: CMC functions as a thickening agent in ceramic glaze formulations, enhancing the body and texture of the glaze material. It increases the viscosity of the glaze mixture, imparting a creamy consistency that improves brushability and application control. The thickening effect of CMC also helps reduce running and pooling of the glaze on vertical surfaces.

Deflocculant: In some cases, CMC can act as a deflocculant in ceramic glaze formulations, helping to disperse and suspend fine particles more uniformly in the glaze mixture. By reducing the viscosity and improving the fluidity of the glaze material, CMC allows for smoother application and better coverage on the ceramic surface.

Binder for Glaze Decoration: CMC is often used as a binder for glaze decoration techniques such as painting, trailing, and slip casting. It helps adhere decorative pigments, oxides, or glaze suspensions to the ceramic surface, allowing for intricate designs and patterns to be applied before firing.

Green Strength Enhancer: CMC can improve the green strength of ceramic glaze compositions, providing mechanical support to fragile greenware (unfired ceramic ware) during handling and processing. It helps reduce cracking, warping, and deformation of greenware, ensuring better dimensional stability and integrity.

CMC plays a vital role in ceramic glaze formulations by serving as a binder, suspension agent, viscosity modifier, thickener, deflocculant, binder for glaze decoration, and green strength enhancer. Its multifunctional properties contribute to the quality, appearance, and performance of glazed ceramic products.