Raw wash clay, also known as ball clay, is a type of sedimentary clay that is commonly used in the ceramic industry as a raw material. It is a fine-grained clay that is composed of a mixture of kaolinite, mica, and quartz, among other minerals.
In the ceramic manufacturing process, raw wash clay is used primarily as a binding agent in the formation of ceramic bodies. It is typically mixed with other types of clay, such as Kaolin Clay or Hydrous Kaolin Clay, along with various other minerals and additives to form a ceramic body. Raw wash clay is valued for its plasticity and ability to improve the workability of the clay mixture.
Raw wash clay is also commonly used as a component of ceramic glazes, which are the outer coatings applied to ceramics to give them their color, texture, and glossiness. Raw wash clay can improve the adhesion of glazes to ceramic bodies and enhance their overall appearance.
Overall, raw wash clay is an essential ingredient in the production of ceramics, as it helps to improve the plasticity and workability of ceramic bodies and enhances the properties of ceramic glazes.