Ceramic

Ceramics are hard, brittle, heat-resistant, and corrosion-resistant materials made by shaping and firing inorganic, nonmetallic substances, like clay, at high temperatures. Examples include earthenware, porcelain, and bricks. Early ceramics, such as fired clay bricks, were used for building walls and structures. Pottery items like pots, vessels, and figurines were also crafted from clay, sometimes mixed with materials like silica, and hardened by firing. Over time, glazing techniques were developed to create smooth, coloured, and less porous surfaces by adding a glassy coating to the ceramic base.

Ceramics

Today, ceramics are used in domestic items, construction materials, and advanced engineering applications, including semiconductors. Examples include pottery, roofing tiles, bricks, amaharasnd terracotta.

• Clay is mixed with water to create a soft, mouldable material that can be shaped into the desired form.
• The shaped object is placed in a kiln and heated at high temperatures (1000–1150°C) to harden the clay, forming a porous ceramic material.
• The hardened ceramic is coated with a glaze, which is a mixture of finely ground glass powder and water, to reduce porosity.
• The glazed object is fired again in the kiln, producing a smooth, shiny, and non-porous surface.
• The final product is cooled gradually to prevent cracks or defects. Once cooled, the ceramic is ready for use, with improved durability, appearance, and resistance to moisture.
• Ceramics can also be painted or decorated before the second firing to create vibrant and intricate designs, enhancing their aesthetic value.