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PODCAST

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics.

Zschimmer & Schwarz Ceramco

Aware of how complex the problems related to the world of chemistry applied to ceramic production processes can be, we want to share our knowledge with those who want to orient themselves or train for passion or profession.Through a simple and direct language, the podcast aims to be an educational space with a focus on products, applications and processes.The journey unfolds along the ceramic production lines.At each stage a topic.At each topic a critical issue.At each critical issue, when possible,

science chemistry

All Episodes

16:32

Dispersants for ceramic bodies: rheology control and...

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2026/10/01

In the wet preparation of ceramic bodies, dispersants play an essential role in controlling slurry rheology, allowing high solids content to be maintained while ensuring flow properties compatible with the production process.In this episode, we examine the main factors affecting slurry rheology: viscosity and thixotropy, raw material characteristics, composition of the aqueous phase, and the different chemical families and mechanisms of action of deflocculants. We also explore the role of dosage and

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22:53

Back meshing of large ceramic slabs: safety,...

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2026/09/14

The growing use of large ceramic slabs, with increasingly larger formats and reduced thicknesses, has introduced new challenges in terms of processing, handling, installation and safety. In this context, back-meshing is a post-firing process in which a reinforcing mesh is bonded to the back of the slab, helping to retain fragments in the event of breakage while providing additional support during subsequent processing, handling and use.In this episode, we explore the back-meshing process, from mesh

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21:39

Semi-finished media for solvent-based glues, inks and...

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2026/07/13

Producing digital inks, glues and ink effects for ceramic decoration is a highly sophisticated process that relies on the careful integration of multiple formulation components. Achieving consistent performance, long-term stability and reliable production quality requires the use of a range of specialized additives, each playing a critical role in ensuring proper product functionality and processability.In this episode, we revisit the concept behind the DECOFLUX DP range: a modular additive platform

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17:07

Technological evolution of ceramic grit binders

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2026/06/12

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 management of rheology, particle suspension and application behavior directly influences the quality of the final result, and why the selection of a binder cannot be based solely on its adhesive strength.We trace the technological evolution of the GRANICER range, examining the characteristics and application logic behind its different

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15:07

Sanitizing, biocides and preservatives: the role of...

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2026/05/15

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 quality of the final product. In a production context characterized by the unavoidable presence of organic substances, bacteria can rapidly proliferate, altering rheological properties and causing application defects.The episode analyzes the main intervention strategies, distinguishing between sanitizers, biocides, and preservatives,

en

27:40

Chemical product labelling: a practical guide

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2026/04/13

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 European regulatory framework, focusing on how CLP, REACH and BPR interact, and how together they balance health protection, environmental safety and market access.We take a closer look at different product categories, highlighting their distinctions, areas of application and regulatory implications. We also examine the main technical

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19:57

Tenacer: Z&S temporary binders

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2026/03/16

This episode explores the technological development of temporary binders for the ceramic industry, starting from the TENACER range developed by Zschimmer & Schwarz. In today’s ceramic manufacturing environment—marked by large-format tiles, ultra-thin slabs, super white bodies with high glass content, and increasing variability in raw materials—maintaining the mechanical strength of the green body has become a key factor for ensuring both process stability and final product quality.The podcast

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22:24

Water-based digital glues by Z&S: development,...

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2026/02/19

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 industrial testing, and continuous product refinement.In this podcast episode, we take a closer look at the AQUABOND range of water-based digital adhesives, exploring how the line has evolved, the technical principles behind it, and the development strategy that shaped it.Alongside essential background insights into the

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18:33

Rheological additives in ceramics: principles,...

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2026/01/19

The pivotal role of rheological additives in ceramic processes: how deflocculants and binders shape the stability, viscosity, and workability of ceramic suspensions.The discussion explores particle interactions, colloidal stability, the electric double layer, and the main electrostatic and steric stabilization mechanisms.The goal is to highlight how the right use of additives can optimize production processes and enhance the quality of the final ceramic product.

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9:29

On black cores and degassing: analyzing a defect

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2025/12/04

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 body due to trapped organic residues.It highlights the production conditions that make the defect more likely to appear and then outlines practical corrective strategies to prevent it.All in just ten minutes.

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11:06

Bubbles, surfactants, and defoamers

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2025/11/10

In ceramic manufacturing, aqueous suspensions play a crucial role in shaping processes and determining the final quality of products.However, foam formation can disrupt production, leading to defects and lower efficiency.This episode dives into the world of foaming phenomena, exploring how they arise and how they affect the properties of suspensions. We discuss surfactants, which can encourage foam formation, and defoamers, which help keep it under control.What key insights are needed to effectively

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10:30

Cratering phenomena and ceramic glazes: in short

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2025/10/27

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, explain how they arise, and share practical ways to prevent them.For a deeper dive into the topic, check out episode #39.

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11:20

Rheology in a nutshell: fundamentals, applications,...

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2025/10/16

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 navigate topics such as viscosity, material behavior, and process control.It’s a first step toward understanding the practical role of rheology in improving quality and production efficiency. In ten minutes.

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15:26

Wetting agents: functions and applications in the...

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2025/09/29

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 effective contact is established between a liquid and a solid.In some cases, solid surfaces exhibit low wettability—a characteristic that, while not inherently problematic, can lead to significant issues in the ceramic industry.When raw ceramic bodies or suspended particles display poor wettability, production inefficiencies may arise,

en

10:53

Water conductivity and industrial processes

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2025/09/15

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 stability and efficiency of operations.When conductivity levels go unchecked, they can compromise the quality of the final product, cause corrosion in equipment, or alter the reactivity of the materials used.In this episode, we explore why continuous monitoring is essential and what strategies companies adopt to keep conductivity within

en

9:17

Chemicals for ceramic glazes: the grinding phase

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2025/09/01

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 application on the glazing line. We focus on dispersants and binders, compounds that give the glaze the right balance of cohesion, stability, and flow. But there’s no one-size-fits-all solution here: the type of additive must be tailored to the specific application method, whether it's airless spraying, bell, or curtain coating.A

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17:23

Maintenance fluids and ceramic digital printers:...

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2025/08/26

Digital printing has transformed the ceramic industry, opening the door to highly sophisticated, versatile, and customizable designs.At the core of this shift are ceramic digital printers—advanced machines that use inkjet technology to precisely apply both functional and decorative materials.While the focus is often on inks and printing performance, there’s another category of fluids working quietly behind the scenes: maintenance fluids.Though they don't directly impact the final aesthetic result,

en

17:59

Temporary binders: functions and actions

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2025/08/04

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 chemical level by creating bonds between particles, increasing the mechanical strength of the mixture.In this episode, we explore what they are, how they work, and why they are essential in modern ceramic processes.

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19:02

Behind the scenes of innovation: exploring the...

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2025/07/21

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 that study (in this case, the well-known issue of the "black core"), but rather to highlight the research methodology and the meticulous, in-depth work that takes place every day in the laboratories of chemical companies serving the ceramic manufacturing industry.Although it begins in an academic context, the process described

en

17:11

Top glaze: what it is, what it is used for, and how...

Apparently invisible. Chemistry in ceramics. ·

2025/07/07

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 primarily protects the underlying decoration and imparts specific technical and aesthetic properties to the surface.This episode focuses on this particular class of glazes, taking a closer look at the key functions and rheological characteristics (among others) that the suspension must exhibit, depending on the chosen application

en

77 results

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