The Effect of Nepheline Syenite Addition on the Sintering Behaviour of Sanitaryware Bodies

Abstract

In this study, the effect of nepheline syenite addition on the sintering and material properties of sanitaryware porcelain bodies was investigated. Three ceramic sanitaryware bodies were prepared by substituting Na feldspar (max. 30 wt %) with nepheline syenite. The sintering behaviour was evaluated using an optical dilatometer. Samples were sintered at 1300 degrees C using step-by-step processing. In addition the linear shrinkage, water absorption and bending strength were measured. Results showed that the addition of nepheline syenite enhanced the material properties of sanitaryware bodies, had a positive effect on the formation of the liquid phase during sintering and improved overall the sintering and mechanical properties.