Three Types of Ceramics
Ceramics are classified into 3 main categories:
- Traditional Ceramics - Pottery, bricks, tiles
- Structural Ceramics - Industrial and construction uses
- Advanced Ceramics - High-tech and engineering applications
1. Traditional Ceramics
What most people think of as "ceramics." Made from natural clay and fired at various temperatures. Includes all pottery and construction materials.
Examples: Pottery (bowls, mugs), bricks, tiles, terracotta pots, porcelain dinnerware
Uses: Tableware, decoration, construction, art
2. Structural Ceramics
Industrial-grade ceramics for construction and heavy-duty uses. Made from refined materials for specific structural properties.
Examples: Refractory bricks (kiln linings), cement, concrete, industrial tiles
Uses: Kilns, furnaces, construction, infrastructure
3. Advanced Ceramics (Technical Ceramics)
High-tech ceramics with specific engineered properties. Used in electronics, aerospace, medical devices. Not made from traditional clay.
Examples: Silicon chips, dental implants, spark plugs, body armor, spacecraft tiles
Uses: Electronics, medicine, aerospace, automotive
For pottery beginners: You'll work exclusively with Traditional Ceramics - specifically pottery made from earthenware, stoneware, or porcelain clay.