DONG Weixia, MA Guanghua, CHEN Yi

(Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute ,333001)

Abstract:  The research developed a kind of whitening agent with the main materials of zircon, metakaolin, and CeO. First, the optimal formula and process of the whitening agent were determined by means Of cross-section experiment and single-factor experiment. Then the whitening agent was added to the body materials, and the effects of its particle size, aid materials and firing system on the whitening result of the body were observed. Finally, the improved proportion of materials and technology were stated.

    The experiments showed that the amount of zircon, metakaolin, and CeO added and their proportion affected the whitening effect. The aid materials talc and spodumene not only helped increase the whiteness of the body, but also reducedthe firing temperature and energy consumption. In addition, spodumene shortened the sintering cycle. The firing temperature and the soaking time also affected the property of the agent.

    The materials used in the research are plentiful and inexpensive. Their producing technologies are not complex and the scope ot firing temperature is wide and easy to control. Therefore, it is profitable to apply the whitening agent to the production of construction ceramics.

Keywords:  whitening agent, metakaolin, Zircon, CeO