Chemical engineer Marcelo Dal Bó is making significant contributions to the Brazilian industrial sector through his work on ceramic tiles. His research is focused on developing methods to reduce the thickness of porcelain tiles while enhancing their strength. Marcelo completed his undergraduate studies at the Federal University of Santa Catarina, earning his master’s and doctorate in materials science and engineering. During his doctoral studies, he had the opportunity to work at the Institute of Ceramic Technology in Spain. His early experiences in the Scouts played a pivotal role in shaping his character, teaching him not only discipline but also the importance of teamwork. Since then, he has maintained a strong connection with nature, finding it a source of rejuvenation and inspiration for his work.
Marcelo Dal Bó
Engineering
Projects
The quest to broaden the applications for porcelain tiles is often hindered by their mechanical strength, which is determined by the material’s composition, microstructure, and processing methods. Producing thinner porcelain tiles without compromising their mechanical strength can significantly reduce costs and expand the material’s range of applications. Chemical tempering presents an elegant solution to this challenge. This process involves replacing the cations in the ceramic material with others that have a larger atomic radius. This substitution induces compressive stress on the material’s surface, enhancing its mechanical resistance to bending. By reducing the thickness of the porcelain tiles, we can cut production costs and conserve natural resources, decrease the emission of pollutants, and lower transportation costs. This approach represents a sustainable and cost-effective strategy for optimizing the use of porcelain tiles.
