Alkali-silica glassy matrixes (AGM ) as replacement for feldspar in conventional porcelain compositions

The effect of alkali-silica glassy matrixes (AGM), as replacement for feldspar, on the microstructure, physical properties and mechanical strength of conventional porcelain has been studied. AGM with chemical composition similar to feldspars has been prepared to introduced alkali-ions (Na+ and K+) in porcelain compositions. It has been found that the replacement of feldspar by AGM ameliorates the mechanical properties of the material. The improvements are attributed to sharp changes in the microstructure as result of a reduction of glassy phase and increase in crystalline mullite amount. AGM were found to be promising candidates as substitutes for feldspar in conventional porcelain.