Sodium feldspar used in ceramic sanitary ware industry

China is the world’s ceramic manufacturing center and a major ceramic producer. Its annual output and export volume rank first in the world. Ceramic products are also one of the main products for my country’s exports to earn foreign exchange. Daily use ceramics account for 70% of the world’s total, furnishing art porcelain accounts for 65% of the world’s production, sanitary ceramics accounts for 50% of global production, and architectural ceramics accounts for 64% of global production.

In recent years, the top three regions in terms of main business income of the national ceramic industry are Jiangxi, Guangdong, and Shandong. In terms of market demand, Europe, the Middle East, North America and Asia are the main ceramic demand regions. my country’s ceramic export markets are mainly concentrated in the United States, Japan, South Korea, the European Union, etc.

In 2021, the total global trade in ceramic sanitary ware reached US$7.8 billion, a record high. As the world’s largest importer of sanitary ware, the United States hit a record high of US$1.7 billion, a year-on-year increase of 3.2%. Germany ranked second, with an import volume of US$556 million, a year-on-year increase of 5.6%. France, the world’s third largest importer, increased by 3.7% year-on-year to US$409 million.

The U.S. housing boom is winding down, and U.S. demand for ceramic sanitary ware is expected to decline over the next few years. In contrast, in the EU, imports of ceramic sanitary ware are expected to rise due to increased construction activity driven by renovation projects.

From 2007 to 2021, India became the fastest growing importer of ceramic sanitary ware. During this period, supplies to India rose from $21.4 million to $123 million. As the Indian government plans to extend the urban part of the “Universal Housing Plan” to 2024, India’s sanitary ware imports will remain at the current level.

China remains the world’s largest exporter, exporting approximately 72 million pieces, accounting for 41% of the world’s total exports. Mexico ranked second with exports of 11 million pieces, followed by Thailand with 8.3 million pieces. Exports from the top three exporting countries accounted for nearly 11% of total exports.

In terms of export value, China ranks first with US$2.7 billion, accounting for 37% of global exports. Germany ranked second with $563 million, accounting for 7.9%. This is followed by Mexico at 5.5%.

Sodium feldspar, a type of mineral commonly found in the Earth’s crust, is used in the manufacturing of various sanitary ware products. Sanitary ware refers to items such as toilets, sinks, bathtubs, and ceramic tiles that are used in bathrooms and kitchens. Sodium feldspar is valued for its unique properties that make it suitable for these applications:

Glaze Composition: Sodium feldspar is a key ingredient in the glaze that is applied to sanitary ware products. The feldspar is ground into a fine powder and mixed with other materials to create a glaze that can be applied to ceramic surfaces. This glaze not only provides a smooth and shiny finish but also enhances the durability and resistance of sanitary ware to stains, chemicals, and wear.

Thermal Expansion: Sodium feldspar’s thermal expansion properties are crucial in the manufacturing of sanitary ware. It helps the ceramic products withstand extreme temperatures, such as hot water in sinks and bathtubs and the firing process during production.

Coloration: Sodium feldspar can also influence the color of the final sanitary ware product. By controlling the type and proportion of feldspar used in the glaze, manufacturers can achieve various colors and patterns to meet market preferences.

Chemical Stability: The chemical stability of sodium feldspar ensures that the glaze maintains its integrity when exposed to water and cleaning chemicals, making it ideal for surfaces in contact with water like sinks and bathtubs.

Strength and Durability: Feldspar’s contribution to the ceramic body of sanitary ware enhances its strength and durability, ensuring that products remain sturdy and long-lasting even in daily use.

In summary, sodium feldspar plays a crucial role in the production of sanitary ware by contributing to glaze composition, thermal stability, coloration, chemical resistance, and overall durability. Its unique properties make it an essential component in the manufacturing of these essential bathroom and kitchen products.

Anyang Lishi Industrial is a manufacturer of sodium feldspar. We welcome inquiries about sodium feldspar from all interested parties!