For ceramic artists and glaze formulators, understanding the nuanced behavior of raw materials is key to achieving desired aesthetic and functional outcomes. Bone ash, a derivative of calcined bone rich in calcium phosphate, is one such material that offers unique properties when incorporated into glaze recipes. While its primary use is in ceramic bodies for translucency, its effect on glazes—ranging from opacification to texture modification—is also significant. As a supplier of high-quality industrial chemicals, we provide insights into the optimal usage of bone ash in glaze formulations.

Bone ash can function in several ways within a glaze. In low-fire glazes, it often acts as an opacifier, contributing to a more opaque, matte finish. This is due to the formation of crystalline structures within the glaze matrix during firing. In contrast, in high-fire glazes, it can contribute to translucency, similar to its effect in bone china bodies, by promoting glass formation. Its role as a flux is also important, as the calcium content can help lower the melting point of the glaze, affecting its overall firing behavior. Many ceramic enthusiasts seek to buy bone ash to experiment with these textural and visual effects in their glazes.

However, working with bone ash in glazes requires careful consideration. It is known to have a tendency to cause glaze slurries to thicken or flocculate, meaning the particles clump together. This can make the glaze difficult to apply evenly and may lead to cracking upon drying due to excessive shrinkage. To mitigate these issues, it is often recommended to add a small amount of a deflocculant, such as Darvan 7 or similar agents, to the glaze slurry. This helps to disperse the particles, creating a smoother, more workable glaze. The precise amount of deflocculant needed can vary depending on the other ingredients in the glaze recipe.

Furthermore, the firing temperature and the amount of bone ash used can significantly influence the outcome. Using too much bone ash or firing at excessively high temperatures can sometimes lead to undesirable effects like blistering or pinholing in the glaze. Therefore, it’s advisable for formulators to start with small percentages of bone ash in their recipes and conduct test firings to determine the optimal concentration and firing profile. Purchasing bone ash from a reliable manufacturer ensures that the material's properties are consistent, allowing for more predictable results in testing and production.

As a dedicated supplier, we offer high-purity bone ash suitable for all ceramic applications, including intricate glaze formulations. We encourage ceramic artists and industrial formulators to purchase bone ash from us for their creative and manufacturing needs. Understanding these nuances of bone ash in glazes allows for more successful and innovative applications. Feel free to contact us for a quote and to learn more about sourcing quality bone ash for your studio or production facility.