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Wood ash as a flux in high temperature glazes
Author
Yeo, Mon Yun
Supervisor
Smith, John
Hasan Zolkifly Rahim
Abstract
The main objective of this study was to research and investigate the effects and results of using wood ash as a flux for high temperature glazes. Ash glazes have been popular amongst potters all over the world from about 1500 BC. However, ash glazes are not common in Singapore.
This study explored the possibilities of using two different types of ash, from Australia and Indonesia (burnt in Singapore), to form high temperature glazes. Local clays were utilized in the formulation of the glazes so that results obtained could be uniquely Singapore.
The academic exercise begins with the researcher's rationale and objectives of studying ash glazes. Next, a brief historical background of kiln development was presented. This was absolutely necessary for a better understanding of the development of ash glazes, as it was only with the ability to achieve higher temperatures in kilns that ash glazes came about. From this, the historical development of ash glazes followed. The various methods and ways which the researcher employed when preparing and testing the ash glazes were than described.
A brief analysis of all the components used in the ash glazes was presented, as this would aid in the analysis of results and findings. The test results were then reported and analyzed. The results of the tests proved that ash, whether locally burnt or imported, could indeed produce unexpectedly beautiful and uniquely subtle effects and textures when used as a flux in high temperature glazes.
This study explored the possibilities of using two different types of ash, from Australia and Indonesia (burnt in Singapore), to form high temperature glazes. Local clays were utilized in the formulation of the glazes so that results obtained could be uniquely Singapore.
The academic exercise begins with the researcher's rationale and objectives of studying ash glazes. Next, a brief historical background of kiln development was presented. This was absolutely necessary for a better understanding of the development of ash glazes, as it was only with the ability to achieve higher temperatures in kilns that ash glazes came about. From this, the historical development of ash glazes followed. The various methods and ways which the researcher employed when preparing and testing the ash glazes were than described.
A brief analysis of all the components used in the ash glazes was presented, as this would aid in the analysis of results and findings. The test results were then reported and analyzed. The results of the tests proved that ash, whether locally burnt or imported, could indeed produce unexpectedly beautiful and uniquely subtle effects and textures when used as a flux in high temperature glazes.
Date Issued
1998
Call Number
TP823 Yeo
Date Submitted
1998