Calcium lignosulfonate can be evaluated as a dispersing, flow-adjusting and processing aid in selected ceramic and mineral systems. Its suitability depends on mineralogy, water chemistry, solids content, forming method, drying and firing conditions.
Process Stages
| Stage | Function and measurements |
|---|---|
| Slip or slurry preparation | Wetting, viscosity, solids loading, residue and foaming |
| Storage and transfer | Settling, viscosity drift, pumpability and microbial control |
| Granulation and forming | Flow, compaction, release, green density and strength |
| Drying | Shrinkage, cracking, deformation and drying time |
| Firing | Burnout, color, surface defects and final performance |
Dispersion Versus Binding
The optimum condition for slurry dispersion may not be the same as the optimum condition for green binding. Evaluate viscosity and green strength separately. If binding is the principal objective, use our focused ceramic binder guide instead.
Laboratory Qualification
Recommended Dispersant Trial Range
For our GAC-CaLS-Dispersant grade used as a ceramic processing dispersant, the TDS gives an effective reference range of 0.1-1.0% by material weight. Begin at the low end and adjust using viscosity, solids loading, settling and fired-quality results. This range is for dispersant screening and should not be treated as a universal ceramic-binder dosage.
- Prepare a control with the plant’s actual raw materials and water.
- Screen several low addition levels without changing other variables.
- Measure slurry behavior over time and through the intended process.
- Form, dry and fire test pieces using the production profile.
- Confirm the selected formulation at pilot or plant scale.
The final dosage and any water reduction must be established for the actual ceramic mineralogy and process.
Product Documentation and Supply Enquiries
Email info@greenagrochem.com with the ceramic type, mineral composition, process, current additive and target performance. Request the applicable TDS, SDS, specification, COA and sample.
Overview of all ceramic uses: calcium lignosulfonate for ceramics. Grades and documents: calcium lignosulfonate product page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does calcium lignosulfonate do in ceramic processing?
It mainly disperses clay slips and slurries, lowering viscosity at a given solids content, and can also add some green strength.
What addition range is used for slurry dispersion?
For our dispersant grade (GAC-CaLS-Dispersant) the TDS gives 0.1 – 1.0% by material weight as a supplier-recommended starting trial range; confirm with viscosity and fired-quality tests.
