Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics.

Back meshing of large ceramic slabs: safety, strength, and process control

The growing use of large ceramic slabs, with increasingly larger formats and reduced thicknesses, has introduced new challenges in terms of processing, handling, installa

Semi-finished media for solvent-based glues, inks and digital effects production

Producing digital inks, glues and ink effects for ceramic decoration is a highly sophisticated process that relies on the careful integration of multiple formulation comp

Technological evolution of ceramic grit binders

Ceramic grit binders are often regarded as simple fixing agents, but their role within the production process is far more complex.  In this episode, we explore how the m

Sanitizing, biocides and preservatives: the role of the PREVENTOL range

This episode addresses the control of bacterial contamination in ceramic processes, a factor that is often invisible yet crucial for the stability of compounds and the qu

Chemical product labelling: a practical guide

Chemical product labelling plays a key role in ensuring safety and regulatory compliance across the entire industrial value chain. In this episode, we explore the Europea

Tenacer: Z&S temporary binders

This episode explores the technological development of temporary binders for the ceramic industry, starting from the TENACER range developed by Zschimmer & Schwarz. In to

Water-based digital glues by Z&S: development, technology, and application

Zschimmer & Schwarz did not enter the water-based digital adhesives arena overnight; its position today is built on more than a decade of dedicated research, hands-on ind

Rheological additives in ceramics: principles, functions and role

The pivotal role of rheological additives in ceramic processes: how deflocculants and binders shape the stability, viscosity, and workability of ceramic suspensions. The

On black cores and degassing: analyzing a defect

This episode provides a quick overview of the “black core” effect—an internal discoloration in porcelain tiles, typically caused by incomplete oxidation of the ceramic bo

Bubbles, surfactants, and defoamers

In ceramic manufacturing, aqueous suspensions play a crucial role in shaping processes and determining the final quality of products. However, foam formation can disrupt

Cratering phenomena and ceramic glazes: in short

A closer look at one of the most common flaws that can affect both the performance and the appearance of ceramic glaze. In this episode, we break down the key causes, ex

Rheology in a nutshell: fundamentals, applications, and role

What is rheology and what is it used for? This episode answers exactly these questions. Without delving into complex details, it presents a few key concepts to help navi

Wetting agents: functions and applications in the ceramic industry

Wettability is, in general terms, the property that describes a liquid's ability to adhere to a solid surface. It can also be understood as the process through which eff

Water conductivity and industrial processes

The electrical conductivity of water is a key parameter in industrial production processes, as it reflects the amount of dissolved ions that can directly impact the stabi

Chemicals for ceramic glazes: the grinding phase

In this episode, we dive into the essential role of chemical additives used during the grinding phase of ceramic glazes—a crucial step that sets the stage for successful

Maintenance fluids and ceramic digital printers: cleaner, stand-by fluid, and model fluid

Digital printing has transformed the ceramic industry, opening the door to highly sophisticated, versatile, and customizable designs. At the core of this shift are ceram

Temporary binders: functions and actions

In the world of ceramics, temporary binders play a crucial role in improving the cohesion and workability of slips. These substances, often polymer-based, act on a chemi

Behind the scenes of innovation: exploring the challenges and methodology behind the development of chemical auxiliaries

This episode takes inspiration from the thesis work of the Head of Research at Zschimmer & Schwarz Ceramco. The goal is not to focus on the specific topic explored in tha

Top glaze: what it is, what it is used for, and how to apply it

In the ceramic field, a “top glaze” refers to the glaze applied as the final layer onto the unfired ceramic substrate.  This glaze can serve multiple functions, but it p

Chimic-A.I. – Chemistry Through the Eyes of Artificial Intelligence. A Playful Experiment

After more than fifty episodes exploring topics of general interest—always through the lens of chemistry and ceramic production—we’ve decided to have some fun. We posed