In the ceramic industry, feldspar is a core flux that directly affects the performance of glazes. Although sodium feldspar (NaAlSi₃O₈) and potassium feldspar (KAlSi₃O₈) belong to the same feldspar family, they have their own advantages in glazes. The latest research and industrial data reveal that sodium feldspar is becoming the preferred material in glaze formulations due to its low melting point and high cost-effectiveness.
Sodium Feldspar and potassium feldspar mainly play the role of reducing the melting temperature and improving the gloss of the glaze in glaze. The melting point of sodium feldspar is about 1100°C, which is lower than that of potassium feldspar at 1150°C-1200°C. This allows it to form a liquid phase faster during the firing process and promotes uniform melting of the glaze. Potassium feldspar can enhance the heat resistance and chemical stability of the glaze due to its high potassium content (K₂O is usually 10%-14%), but its melting speed is slightly inferior.
Data shows that the Na₂O content of sodium feldspar is generally 9%-12%, which effectively reduces the viscosity of the glaze, improves fluidity, and ensures that the glaze is smooth and defect-free. Although the high potassium characteristics of potassium feldspar help to increase the hardness of the glaze layer (Mohs hardness can reach 6.5), it may increase energy consumption due to its high melting point.
The application of sodium feldspar in ceramic glazes is showing an accelerated growth trend, especially under the demand for energy conservation, emission reduction and efficient production, its advantages are magnified.
Low-temperature fast-firing process: Experiments by a South China ceramic enterprise show that in 1250°C low-temperature fast-firing glazes, the proportion of sodium feldspar increases to 40%, the firing cycle is shortened from 8 hours to 7.2 hours, and the yield rate increases from 95% to 98%. In contrast, the potassium feldspar formula requires 1300°C, the cycle is extended to 8.5 hours, and the yield rate is only 96.5%.
Large-size tile production: For large-plate tiles with a thickness of more than 10mm, the sodium feldspar formula effectively reduces the cracking rate of the glaze. Data show that when the proportion of sodium feldspar in the glaze reaches 35%, the cracking rate drops to 0.8%, while the potassium feldspar formula is 1.5%.
Intelligent kiln adaptation: Modern ceramic kilns mostly use precise temperature control technology, and the low melting point characteristics of sodium feldspar are highly consistent with this. Taking the smart kiln with a daily output of 800 tons as an example, the sodium feldspar formula reduces fuel consumption by 12% and CO₂ emissions by about 15 tons/day.
Regional application differences: In resource-rich China and India, the utilization rate of sodium feldspar has exceeded 60% due to its large reserves and low mining cost (about US$100/ton). Due to the traditional advantages of potassium feldspar in the European market, the sodium feldspar penetration rate is only 30%, but data from 2024 shows that its proportion is growing at an average annual rate of 5%.
Industry case: A well-known ceramic brand launched an ultra-thin glaze series in 2024. The proportion of sodium feldspar in the glaze reached 45%, the firing temperature was reduced to 1180°C, the overall cost was reduced by 10%, and the market feedback showed that the glaze glossiness increased by 15%.
Sodium Feldspar leads the glaze formula with its low melting point, high fluidity and economy. Although potassium feldspar has an advantage in durability, it is slightly inferior in energy efficiency and cost competition. Industry insiders pointed out that with the advancement of intelligent production and environmental protection policies, the application ratio of sodium feldspar is expected to exceed 70% in 2026, reshaping the ceramic glaze market. Henan Ankai New Materials Co., Ltd. will continue to support the efficient development of the ceramic industry with high-quality sodium feldspar products and technical support.
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