BISCUIT FIRING Meaning and
Definition
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Biscuit firing, also known as bisque firing, is a process used in ceramics to harden the clay before glazing. It is the initial firing of the ceramic piece at a relatively low temperature to remove physical water and organic materials from the clay body and make it durable enough for handling and further decoration.
During biscuit firing, the ceramic piece is carefully placed in a kiln and subjected to temperatures ranging from around 1700°F to 2000°F (930°C to 1100°C). The kiln is heated gradually to ensure that any remaining moisture in the clay is evaporated slowly. This slow and controlled heating prevents cracking or exploding of the piece due to trapped water turning to steam.
As the temperature rises, the clay undergoes a series of physical and chemical changes. The water and organic materials burn off, causing the piece to shrink slightly. The clay also undergoes a process called vitrification, where it reaches a high enough temperature for the silica and other particles in the clay to fuse together, forming a solid and durable ceramic surface.
After biscuit firing, the ceramic piece becomes an unglazed "biscuit" or "bisque" and is ready for further stages of decoration like glazing or painting. Biscuit firing provides a solid foundation for glaze application as the porous surface of the clay allows the glaze to adhere properly and create a uniform and attractive finish when it is fired again at a higher temperature.
Common Misspellings for BISCUIT FIRING
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Etymology of BISCUIT FIRING
The word "biscuit firing" has its origins in the pottery and ceramics industry.
The term "biscuit" in this context refers to a fired clay object that has been partially but not fully vitrified (made into a glass-like substance). During the biscuit firing process, the clay is fired at a relatively low temperature to remove moisture and make it hard and durable enough to handle without breaking. This initial firing prepares the clay for glazing or further decorative treatments.
The word "biscuit" itself is derived from the Latin word "bis coctus", which means "twice cooked". It refers to the process of baking something twice, as the clay is first fired to a lower temperature and then fired again at a higher temperature after glazing.
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