Ceramics
Ceramics are a broad range of materials made from naturally occurring elements such as oxygen, silicon, and aluminum. Additionally, some ceramics are also made from man-made polymer compounds. These materials have many different characteristics, and are used for a variety of applications in a variety of industries.
Ceramics are often referred to as non-metallic materials because they do not contain a metallic element and therefore dont conduct electric current. They tend to be strong, brittle, and resistant to chemical attack. Ceramics are used to manufacture many items such as dinnerware, tiles, and ceramics for engineering applications.
Ceramics are typically made of a combination of elements, such as clay and kaolin, to form an inorganic bond during a process called firing. Depending on the desired characteristics, different clay and kaolin mixtures are used and fired at different temperatures. This firing process causes the molecules in the mixture to align and bind together, forming a structure known as a crystalline lattice. The finished product has structural and chemical properties that make it ideal for specific applications.
One of the most common applications for ceramics is dinnerware. Dinnerware is a form of tableware and includes items such as dishes, saucers, mugs, and bowls. These items are typically made from clay or porcelain, and are often glazed to give them a glossy texture and to increase their strength.
Ceramics are also used in engineering applications. In the aerospace industry, ceramics have been used to create turbine blades and other vital components. Ceramics are incredibly durable and can handle incredibly high temperatures. In the automotive industry, ceramics are used to create brake discs and other components.
Finally, ceramic tiles are often used in flooring and wall coverings. Ceramic tile is generally composed of clay, feldspar, and sand. It is usually either glazed or unglazed, depending on the desired aesthetic. Ceramic tile is incredibly durable and can last for decades with the proper care and maintenance.
Ceramics are incredibly versatile materials that have many different applications. From dinnerware to Engineering to tiling, ceramics are used to create a plethora of products. Ceramics are incredibly durable and can stand up to high temperatures and other extreme conditions. For these reasons, they are widely used in many industries.
