| Name |
Alumina Hydrate |
| Description |
Hydrated alumina contains significant water in its crystal structure. There are differing water contents depended on the type of alumina hydrate, but the main refined article of commerce in the market is known as alpha aluminum trihydroxide (with an LOI of 34%). If you are unsure about the alumina hydrate you have in stock you can do a simple LOI test.
Hydrated aluminas are fine granular white powders that have good flow properties. As with any form of alumina, this material has a very high melting temperature. It can be useful in glazes as a source of aluminum oxide, however the powder must be very fine. The hydrated version of alumina stays in suspension better in glaze slurries and has better adhesive qualities. Also using hydrated alumina in glazes and glass can promote the fining operation of coalescing and removing finely dispersed gas bubbles. Small additions of fine alumina hydrate added to a glaze can also enhance the color of Cr-Al pinks. Larger additions of fine material can impart matteness if the glaze is able to take it into solution (sourcing alumina from kaolin and frits may be more practical).
Alumina hydrate promotes opacity in enamels and glazes by generating gas bubbles in the glaze melt. |
| MSDS |
MSDS Sheets |