The potential of the replica technique for the clay brick and tile industry

In this process, an existing structure is replicated, in that an open-pored, organic body, termed the template, is infiltrated with ceramic slurry and excess slurry is then removed by squeezing or centrifuging. Then the body is dried. Drying is followed by a firing process, in the course of which the organic component burns off, leaving a solid ceramic to form. As a template, both natural materials, like wood shavings, and synthetic materials, like foams, can be used. With the choice of the templates and the use of mineral and chemical additives, the properties of the ceramic can be influenced. The ceramics formed have high porosity and therefore offer possibilities for production of thermally insulating and noise-absorbing products.

Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Alexander Winkel M. Sc., Brick and Tile Research Institute Essen Regd.

x

Related articles:

Issue 2/2019 Dipl.-Ing. (FH) Alexander Winkel M. Sc.

Production of sound-absorbing clay bricks with the replica process

1 Introduction People’s exposure to noise is steadily increasing, and associated with this, health problems are rising with financial consequences. For a reduction of the noise, in interior spaces...

more
Issue 8/2016

Engobes and glazes on ceramic building products – recommendations for testing to certify durability

In the past, some glazed roofing tiles have exhibited damage that only became visible after a certain period of time. Moreover, not all tiles in one production batch were affected. Producers of glazed...

more
Issue 11/2012

Appraisal of ceramic-technological properties in raw materials mineralogy

This contribution describes the material aspect of the mineral phase composition and its effects on the ceramic­-technological properties of silicate-ceramic compositions and bodies. The relevant...

more
Issue 8/2015

Raw material analyses and body development for innovative­ clay brick and tile products

In the talk, the development of a body for a clay roofing tile is described by way of example – from testing of the individual raw materials through selection of the suitable batch components to the...

more
Issue 9/2010 Market review

Surface refinement options for heavy clay products

1 Introduction As visual beings, humans are able to see colours. No wonder then, that colours play an important role in all facets of our lives. Chromic diversity reflects the fact that we are able to...

more