QUARTZ (SiO2)

Quartz, also known as rock crystal, is the crystalline form of (SiO2) belonging to the trigonal system. Quartz is one of the most prevalent minerals found in the Earth’s crust and serves as the primary silica mineral, present in significant quantities within igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. This mineral is extensively utilized as a fundamental raw material in the ceramic industry. In this context, quartz plays a crucial role in minimizing shrinkage during the drying and firing processes while enhancing the rigidity of the ceramic body.

Before firing, quartz acts as an inert raw material that can modify the plasticity of the ceramic body. The particles of quartz typically exhibit polygonal sharp edges, which facilitate the rapid release of moisture from the green body, thereby increasing its water permeability. This characteristic is advantageous for the glazing process, as it can reduce drying time, minimize drying shrinkage, and help prevent deformation of the green body.

In porcelain production, quartz significantly affects the mechanical strength of the green body. The inclusion of appropriately sized quartz particles can substantially enhance the strength of the porcelain body; conversely, unsuitable particle sizes may have detrimental effects. Additionally, quartz contributes to the transparency and whiteness of the porcelain blank.

Within the glaze, silicon dioxide is the primary component responsible for creating a vitreous structure. An increase in quartz content within the glaze can elevate its melting temperature and viscosity while lowering the thermal expansion coefficient. Furthermore, quartz is a key factor in imparting high mechanical strength, hardness, abrasion resistance, and chemical resistance to the glaze.

Properties

  • Hard (7 on Mohs scale)
  • Chemically inert
  • Thermal stability
  • Electrical properties
  • It offers a low thermal expansion and hence, allows minimum shrinkage
  • One of the best benefits of High-Quality Quartz is low electric conductivity
  • When exposed to eutectic temperature, it can form a clear lattice structure

Typical Technical Specifications

Properties             Unit        Value

SiO2                        %             99.70% (00.20%)

Fe2O3                     %             00.04% (max)

Al2O3                      %             00.12% (00.05%)

Cr2O3                     %             0.00040 (max)

TiO2                         %             0.016

LOI                            %             0.17

Refractive index   —            1.544 – 1.553 – Dr + 0.009 (B – G interval)

Specific gravity     —            2.65 constant; variableinimpure varieties

Melting point        —            1650 (75) 0C

Streak                     —            White

Boiling point         —            22300C

Crystal system      —            Trigonal

Solubility                —            H2O insoluble

Available Mesh Size : 100 / 150 / 200 / 250 / 300 / 500, 30 x 80 / 40 x 150 / 24 x 60 / 20 x 80 / 36 x 150 / 2mm / 1mm / 0.5mm