Chemical Hardening in Porcelain Tile Manufacturing

Science / Engineering

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.

Amount invested

Grant Serrapilheira: R$ 100,000.00

Open Calls

Science Call 1
  • Topics
  • Ceramic plate
  • Materials engineering
  • Porcelain tile