Features of microwave fired utilitarian stoneware

Abstract

[EN] Both high temperature phases and microstructure transformations of stoneware products microwave and conventionally (gas and electric) fired are investigated aiming at a better understanding of factors affecting their mechanical and aesthetic properties. The microstructure of microwave fired stoneware has similar characteristics to those of conventionally fired samples, microwave firing requiring lower temperatures to achieve a similar structure. X-Ray diffraction and scanning electron micrographs show that the most relevant transformations are complete for lower temperatures when using microwave heating. Microwave radiation is presented as an alternative heating technology for stoneware firing, leading to similar, or even better, mechanical properties and similar microstructural characteristics, requiring lower firing temperatures and shorter processing times.