Glaze binders are available in both solid and liquid forms and are designed to enhance the performance of glaze suspensions (as well as engobes) throughout the different stages of the production process.
Depending on their chemical nature and specific formulation, they can act on key parameters such as particle cohesion, leveling properties, and drying behavior, ultimately ensuring a more stable, uniform, and effective application.
In practical terms, they improve cohesion by strengthening the adhesion between solid particles, which increases the compactness of the suspension and the durability of the coating during handling and drying. At the same time, they provide a leveling effect, helping the glaze spread evenly across the ceramic surface to achieve a smooth, defect-free finish, even under demanding application conditions. Another crucial aspect is their influence on drying times: binders regulate water evaporation, allowing drying to be slowed down or stabilized as needed, thereby reducing the risk of cracks or shrinkage.
During the milling of glazes and engobes, binders also help maintain proper particle dispersion, which significantly improves the quality of the final product. In the last stages of the process, they play an equally important role by protecting the unfired piece and supporting the final salting, leading to greater mechanical strength in the green state and enhanced aesthetic quality after firing.