Formulation of Glazes Using Selected Available Natural Materials from Mukono and Jinja Districts, Uganda
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Date
2024-05
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Kenyatta University
Abstract
The researcher carried out a study on glaze formulation using selected natural
materials collected from Mukono and Jinja districts. This was guided by geological
mapping of Uganda. The topography of Uganda is made up of rolling hills, ridges,
plains, and multiple drainage systems, all of which are rich in natural mineral
resources. Amongst the mineral possessions are the massive sums of clay like kaolin
and muscovite which was important for this study research. Although there has been
development in the understanding of glaze formulation, the survey done on the three
studios showed that there is a need for the researcher to conduct the study due to the
imported glazes which have a direct effect on product pricing. The selected natural
materials were collected and ground using the ball mill, transported to Kenyatta
University ceramic studio. The chemical analysis was done using X-Ray Fluorescence
to determine rock composition. The studio tests were first done at primary testing of
100% at a temperature of 1250ᵒC and the firing temperatures were split into two
categories, low temperature (1200ᵒC) and high temperature (1250ᵒC). Additives were
part of the progressive testing using the lining blend. The tests were done on the clay
test bars, the second progressive test was 85% material collected and 15% additional
material, and the final progressive test was 80% material collected and 20% additional
material. The research significantly added knowledge in the field of ceramics in the
area of formulating glazes using locally available natural materials that are affordable
for the Ugandan local ceramic market and presumably the international market. Glaze
properties like viscosity, surface tension, volatilization, fusibility, and reaction with
the body clay were used to determine successful glazes using a psychometric
observation scale. Successful glazes were applied to creative project work.
Description
A Research Report Submitted in Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the Award of the Degree of Masters of Arts (Fine Art) in the School of Law, Arts and Social Sciences of Kenyatta University, May 2024.
Supervisor
Anthony Ngondo