Ceramics

Quartz is a key component of ceramic and decorative tile bodies. By providing a structural framework, it reduces drying and firing shrinkage and helps prevent deformation, cracking and breakage during firing.

Quartz contributes to the control of thermal expansion, strength and whiteness of the body. Water absorption and firing behaviour depend on the formulation and firing conditions as well as the quartz content.

Used with basic oxides, quartz acts as a glass former in glazes and is also used to address glaze crazing caused by differences in thermal expansion.