Understand how ceramic diluting agents disperse particles, reduce viscosity, and stabilize the entire slurry system during ceramic production.
A ceramic diluting agent is an essential additive used to reduce viscosity, improve fluidity, and stabilize ceramic slurry. Instead of increasing water—which weakens the green body and causes defects— the diluting agent disperses ceramic particles through chemical mechanisms.
For a basic introduction to ceramic diluting agents, you may refer to our product introduction article. To understand correct usage, see the two-stage addition method.
1. Why Does Ceramic Slurry Need a Diluting Agent?
Most ceramic raw materials, such as kaolin, feldspar, quartz, and zirconium silicate, carry surface charges and tend to form agglomerates in water. This leads to:
- High viscosity
- Poor slurry flow
- Uneven particle distribution
- Low grinding efficiency
- Defects in the final ceramic product
A diluting agent solves these issues by chemically modifying the interactions between particles.
2. The Scientific Mechanism: How Diluting Agents Disperse Particles
Ceramic diluting agents disperse particles through three major scientific mechanisms.
2.1 Electrostatic Repulsion
Many diluting agents ionize in water and adsorb onto particle surfaces. This increases zeta potential, creating strong electrostatic repulsion between particles. As a result:
- Particles move apart instead of forming agglomerates
- Slurry becomes more fluid
- Viscosity decreases significantly
2.2 Steric Hindrance
Polymer-based diluting agents form a molecular protective layer around particles. This prevents close contact and reduces flocculation even at high solid content.
2.3 Double-Layer Stabilization
The electrical double layer surrounding ceramic particles becomes thicker and more stable, maintaining long-term slurry suspension.
3. Benefits of Proper Dispersion
| Benefit | Production Advantage |
|---|---|
| Lower viscosity | Improved pumping and casting |
| Better particle distribution | Higher green strength |
| Reduced water consumption | Shorter drying time |
| Improved grinding efficiency | Less energy consumption |
| Stable storage behavior | Slurry does not thicken or settle easily |
4. How to Ensure Optimal Dispersion
- Add diluting agent in stages for the best results (see: two-stage usage method)
- Pre-dilute the agent in water for easier mixing
- Increase dosage gradually instead of adding all at once
- Monitor viscosity throughout ball milling
- Adjust pH to maintain maximum zeta potential
In some formulations, combining diluting agents with deflocculants is beneficial. For details, refer to the key features of deflocculants.
5. Application Areas
Properly dispersed slurry is essential for:
- Ceramic tiles
- Sanitary ware
- Porcelain tableware
- High-alumina ceramics
- Glazes and engobes
For more ceramic additives, see our complete product list.
You can also find real application cases in our customer case library.
6. Summary
Ceramic diluting agents play a crucial role in dispersing ceramic particles, improving fluidity, and maintaining long-term slurry stability. Understanding their mechanism and proper application ensures higher product quality, fewer defects, and improved production efficiency.
For technical assistance or formulation guidance, feel free to contact our technical team.