Porcelain tile production requires unfired pieces to withstand handling before firing. For manufacturers investigating clay additives, bentonite is a candidate for improving cohesion and mechanical performance.
Its suitability should be assessed through the complete production route.
Published research on porcelain stoneware bodies has investigated bentonite additions for improving plasticity and their effects on rheological and mechanical properties. This supports formulation trials rather than a universal addition rate.
Establish a Production Baseline Record the existing body composition, slurry solids, moisture, granulation conditions and forming procedure.
Measure strength at clearly defined stages. As-pressed strength and dried strength are different results, and both depend on sample condition.
Compare Controlled Addition Levels Prepare a control and a small series of candidate formulations.
Document whether bentonite replaces part of the body or is added on top of it. Keep preparation conditions consistent so that changes can be interpreted.
An increase in strength should be considered alongside changes in slurry viscosity, dispersant demand and processability.
Follow the Material Through Granulation and Pressing Where spray drying is used, evaluate the slurry and the resulting granules.
Changes in the feed can affect downstream behaviour, so laboratory strength results should be followed by representative granulation and pressing trials.
Record granule moisture, size distribution and compacted-body consistency.
Check Drying and Firing Evaluate drying shrinkage, cracking, fired shrinkage, water absorption and appearance under the intended cycle.
The objective is a reliable processing window that meets strength and finished-product requirements.
Specify the Grade by ApplicationBuyers should request particle-size information, moisture, relevant mineral data and representative samples.
HERMANO supplies bentonite for ceramic formulation evaluation. Share your tile-body process and current handling problem to discuss candidate materials and a comparison plan.
