The effect of nepheline syenite addition on pyroplastic deformation of sanitarywares

Nepheline syenite is used instead of feldspars as fluxing in ceramics. In this study, three ceramic bodies were prepared. Nepheline syenite was substituted by Na feldspar in the ratio of maximum 30 wt.%. The pyroplastic deformation was evaluated together with technological properties, including linear shrinkage, water absorption and strength. Phase and microstructural characteristics were also investigated. Results showed that the addition of nepheline syenite provided a decrease in viscosity. The decrease in viscosity caused an increase in the tendency for pyroplastic deformation in bodies containing nepheline syenite; however, this result shows that bodies containing nepheline syenite can be sintered at a lower temperature than the standard body. The addition of nepheline syenite also decreased water absorption and increased strength. © 2016 Authors