This study aims to overcome the resource depletion and environmental limitations
of traditional ceramic glaze raw materials such as feldspar, silica, and limestone by
identifying sustainable and eco-friendly alternative materials. Specifically, this...
This study aims to overcome the resource depletion and environmental limitations
of traditional ceramic glaze raw materials such as feldspar, silica, and limestone by
identifying sustainable and eco-friendly alternative materials. Specifically, this research
focuses on developing crackle glazes with unique textures by utilizing Guano, a
natural organic resource, as a primary glaze material and systematically identifying
its surface characteristics.
XRF analysis revealed that Guano contains exceptionally high levels of Calcium
(CaO, 41.36%) and Phosphate (P2O5, 29.04%), which are essential components for
glaze formulation. These components induce melting and cooling characteristics
distinct from conventional glazes and were identified as key variables in controlling
the internal tension necessary for crack formation.
The experimental process was conducted in four stages: Body Selection: Among
five commercial clays, White Porcelain clay (14.2%) and Buncheong clay (13.4%)
from "Company D" were selected for their high total shrinkage rates, which are
conducive to crack induction. Base Glaze Composition: Preliminary tests showed that
a combination of Nepheline Syenite, Dolomite, and Limestone produced the clearest
and most stable cracks.- 102
Optimization: Guano content was adjusted to 3%, 5%, and 7%, and all
specimens were fired at 1,250°C in an oxidizing atmosphere. Final Analysis: The
most stable and effective glaze combination was 60% Nepheline Syenite, 30%
Dolomite, and 10% Frit 3134, with an addition of 5% Guano.
The thermal expansion coefficient of the optimized glaze was measured at
11×10-6/ °C, proving that the tensile stress resulting from the thermal expansion
differential between the body and the glaze is the primary cause of crack formation.
To maximize the crackle effect, applying three or more thick layers was essential, as
it maximized the tension within the glaze layer to produce distinct, large cracks. The
addition of Guano effectively suppressed the yellowness of the glaze and shifted the
coloration toward a relatively bluish tone. Furthermore, the developed glaze
demonstrated high practical utility with excellent UV stability, maintaining a Delta E
value of less than 1.0 in UV tests.
XRD analysis identified the Cristobalite II (SiO2) phase as the primary crystal
structure crucial for crack formation. SEM analysis showed that while single-layered
specimens (thin layers) exhibited rounded particle shapes, triple-layered specimens
(thick layers) with distinct cracks showed angular forms and fractured particles. This
suggests that a thicker glaze layer promotes non-uniform crystallization and stress
concentration.
In conclusion, this study successfully implemented unique crackle patterns and
clear surface characteristics rarely seen in conventional glazes by utilizing Guano.
This research proves the potential for new crackle glaze development, contributes to
the field of eco-friendly ceramics, and suggests new directions for expanding the
formative expression of modern ceramic art.