Week 4 Readings
4. Materials science connection: from glaze logic to smart ceramics
Why connect art ceramics to advanced ceramics?
Traditional ceramic practice teaches a powerful design logic:
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choose materials → control processing → achieve properties → deliver function
That same logic appears in modern ceramic industries.
Two advanced ceramics examples (conceptual, beginner-friendly)
A) Silicon carbide (SiC) ceramics
Why it matters: often valued for high-temperature stability, wear resistance, and strength.
Design translation: “surface durability + thermal performance” becomes the goal, not decoration.
B) Piezoelectric ceramics
Why it matters: can convert mechanical stress into electrical signals (useful in sensors and actuators).
Design translation: “structure + processing” affects performance and reliability.
Skill card: Property → Design → Application (fill-in)
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Property I want: __________
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Design decision: __________
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Possible application: __________
Example:
Property: electrical insulation
Design decision: choose a ceramic body with stable insulating behaviour
Application: insulators or protective components
Output this week
You will create:
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a Surface Reading Note (5 observations + 1 cautious hypothesis)
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a Kiln/Firing explanation in 3 sentences (no formulas)
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a Property → Design → Application mini map
