Surface Physicochemical Properties of Easy-cleaning Ceramic

A series of surface physicochemical properties were studied which could provide theory basis for the research of easy-cleaning ceramic. The crystal structure and microstructure were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM), respectively. The surface morphology was observed by atom force microscope (AFM). Static contact angle measurements were used to calculate surface free energy SFE and its components with a Dataphysics OCA-30 contact angle analyzer. The results showed that SFE and its components varied with such chemical composition as the ratio of silica to alumina, and fusing agent. The lower adhesion work of oil under water on the glaze surface with higher surface free energy and polar component, the better the cleanability. The AFM and SEM results showed that the easy-cleaning glaze surface was smoother and the section was denser and less porous. The far-infrared radiance of easy-cleaning ceramic was 92.7%