As well as kaolinite, ball clays typically contain other ‘contaminants’ that provide its unique characteristics. Layered mineral contaminants provide strength, whereas carbon contaminants can provide favourable rheological properties, well suited for sanitaryware production.
Key characteristics of ball clay include:
- Rheological stability
- Unfired strength
- Plasticity and workability
- Contribution to vitrification
- Light firing colour
