Search Results (152)

Resin-matrix ceramics are among the increasingly preferred dental biomaterials in restorative dentistry. However, these materials are continuously exposed to staining from beverages in the oral environment, and continue to present limitations in terms of long-term aesthetic performance. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of different surface finishing procedures and immersion in commonly consumed beverages on the color change (ΔE₀₀) of four different resin-matrix ceramics (Cerasmart, Lava Ultimate, Shofu Block HC, and Vita Enamic). A total of 256 specimens were randomly assigned to mechanical polishing or glazing, then immersed in coffee, red wine, cola, or distilled water for 14 days. Data were analyzed using three-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), with Tukey and Bonferroni post hoc tests (α = 0.05). Surface finishing procedure, material type, beverage type and immersion time significantly affected ΔE₀₀ values (p < 0.05). The highest ΔE₀₀ values were observed at 14 days in the red wine-immersed glaze groups of Shofu Block HC (ΔE₀₀ = 7.44 ± 0.45) and Lava Ultimate (ΔE₀₀ = 7.24 ± 0.83). These findings suggest that surface finishing procedures and material selection play a critical role in preserving the aesthetic performance of resin-matrix ceramic restorations, and mechanical polishing may be considered a clinically favorable approach for computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) restorations. Full article

Study of early Chinese ceramics is crucial for understanding cultural, economic, and technological developments in Chinese history. With the evolving deep learning techniques, one urgent question would be, whether we can identify early Chinese ceramics by a simple 2D image without further domain knowledge. This work collected a highly diverse dataset for ancient Chinese ceramics from 15 dynasties, with 4 representative glaze colors and 15 shape types. We studied the performance of five state-of-the-art neural networks on two identification tasks: ceramic visual feature recognition and early Chinese ceramic dating. A class-imbalance learning strategy is designed to improve the models’ performance on multi-label tasks. To the best of our knowledge, our work is the first to introduce deep learning into early Chinese ceramic recognition on a large scale. Experiments prove that deep learning can recognize visual features like glaze and most shape types with high accuracy, while ceramic dating is feasible for the main dynasties but remains challenging along the overall history. Further quantitative assessment shows that cultural inheritance and artistic continuity can lead to reasonable false dating by classifying ceramics into adjacent dynasties or periods. Moreover, although domain knowledge is required for interpretation, deep learning shows great potential in recognizing even unlabeled time-relevant features, which can help study the inheritance and evolution of early Chinese ceramic development. Full article

Portuguese ceramic tile (azulejo) production has evolved significantly since its beginnings in the 16th century. While historic tiles reflect well-established traditional techniques and styles, modern and contemporary works began to explore new aesthetic and material possibilities, introducing textures, surface effects, and experimental approaches that challenge conventional conservation methods. This study examines a contemporary Portuguese tile panel dated from 1987, featuring decorative effect glazes with crater and crazing textures, which were characterized and reproduced. Analytical techniques, including optical microscopy, micro-X-ray fluorescence spectrometry, and Raman spectroscopy in microscopic mode, were employed to characterize material composition and formation mechanisms. Results showed that the crater-effect glazes were achieved with a silica-rich glaze recipe with MnO₂ and ZrO₂. The crazing effect developed in regions where unmelted crystalline silica induced internal stresses within a lead-silicate glaze, contributing to localized degradation. Experimental reproductions of the glazes, guided by analytical data, were conducted to better understand their formation and inform conservation strategies. The results provide essential insights for the technical assessment, documentation, and preservation of contemporary ceramic artworks featuring decorative effect glazes and contribute to the broader field of cultural heritage conservation. Full article

This study explores the feasibility of constructing a microwave kiln for artisanal ceramics using accessible materials and homemade susceptors. Two modified microwave ovens (18 L and 50 L) were equipped with insulation and susceptors to achieve temperatures up to 1280 °C. Susceptors were fabricated from silicon carbide (SiC) and magnetite (Fe₃O₄) powders via microwave-assisted reactive sintering. Magnetite-poor susceptors (SiC/Fe₃O₄ > 2 by weight) demonstrated excellent durability, maintaining stable thermal performance over multiple cycles. In contrast, magnetite-rich susceptors (SiC/Fe₃O₄ ∼ 1) exhibited high initial efficiency and the ability to control redox conditions but degraded significantly after 10–15 cycles due to partial melting. The microwave kiln achieved significant time savings, completing the ramp-up of the firing cycles in 1 h, compared to 8–10 h in conventional kilns. Energy consumption per litre was comparable to large electric kilns but significantly lower than small ones. The fired ceramics, including porcelain and earthenware, showed excellent mechanical and aesthetic qualities, with glazes performing well even at lower temperatures than recommended. The study highlights the advantages of microwave heating, such as faster processing, energy efficiency, and the ability to control redox conditions, which mimic traditional gas-fired kilns. The developed susceptors are cost-effective and easy to manufacture, making this approach accessible to craftspeople and amateurs. While magnetite-rich susceptors enable redox control, their limited lifespan requires further optimisation. This work demonstrates the potential of microwave kilns for artisanal ceramics, offering flexibility, efficiency, and quality comparable to traditional methods, with promising applications for unique or small-scale production. Future research should focus on refining susceptors durability and validating redox control effects on ceramic glazes. Full article

Background: Material choice in full-arch implant-supported restorations significantly impacts longevity, complication rates, and patient satisfaction. This retrospective study compared monolithic zirconia versus hybrid metal–ceramic full-arch designs over a minimum three-year follow-up. Methods: Twenty patients (9 female, 11 male; mean age 55.4 ± 7.5 years) treated with full-arch implant-supported restorations were reviewed. Ten received monolithic zirconia restorations; ten received hybrid metal–ceramic. Clinical outcomes, including mechanical complications, prosthetic maintenance needs, opposing dentition wear, and patient-reported satisfaction (esthetics, comfort, masticatory function via VAS), were recorded. Statistical analyses were performed using Chi-square, independent t-tests, or Mann–Whitney U tests, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: All implants (100%) and prostheses (>95%) survived. Monolithic zirconia exhibited no veneering chipping, while two events were observed in hybrid restorations (difference not statistically significant), and one bulk fracture occurred (monolithic). Hybrids had no framework fractures. Screw loosening occurred in one zirconia case. Mean VAS scores exceeded 9.0 in both groups; zirconia scored slightly higher for esthetics (9.4 ± 0.5 vs. 8.8 ± 0.6) and comfort (9.2 ± 0.6 vs. 9.0 ± 0.7). Polished zirconia resulted in no clinically detectable enamel wear, whereas hybrids with glaze loss caused occasional mild enamel wear but without functional impairment. Conclusions: Both restoration types show excellent survival and patient satisfaction over three years. Monolithic zirconia reduces veneering-related complications and maintenance, suggesting a possible advantage in functionally demanding cases with high occlusal loads or limited prosthetic space; hybrids may remain preferable when esthetic customization and gingival contour reproduction are paramount. Full article

This article traces the long transformation of liuli 琉璃 (Sanskrit vaiḍūrya) in China—from imported blue-green gemstones (typified by beryl) to man-made glass and, after the Song, to glazed architectural ceramics. Combining archaeological finds, textual and Buddhist sources, and mineralogical data, it argues that: (1) the wide circulation of Roman–South Asian glass imitations drove a dual shift in China, moving liuli from a natural gem to artificial glass; (2) Buddhist ritual and donation practices “sacralized” glass, integrating it into jewelry, vessels, and sacred spaces; and (3) this shift profoundly reshaped Chinese decorative arts, recasting color-and-light aesthetics and the material toolkit—from Han–Jin beadwork and containers, through Sui–Tang elite display, to the post-Song architectural palette epitomized by liuli tiles. The millennial journey of liuli shows how materials acquire new meanings through global exchange and local reinterpretation, and how man-made glass helped redefine Chinese decorative practice over the course of two thousand years. Full article

Brown glazed wares, as some of the famous Song wares, attract significant attention nowadays due to the glaze containing a large amount of metastable ε-Fe₂O₃, a promising multiple-functional electromagnetic material. In this work, typical fragments were systematically analyzed by micro-Raman spectroscopy combined with scanning electron microscopy as well as X-ray fluorescence. Abundant ε-Fe₂O₃ crystals were observed in the glaze surfaces, with the exception of numerous hematite crystals detected in the surfaces of fragments excavated in Hunyuan kilns (Shanxi province). The correlative analyses of Raman and XRF data indicate that relatively high SiO₂ and low CaO contents in the system may benefit ε-Fe₂O₃ precipitation, and the crystallization temperature may range from 1150 to 1200 °C. In addition, various crystals were detected in the glazes, including magnetite, magnesioferrite, zircon, anatase, pseudobrookite, rutile, cordierite, cristobalite, quartz, and mullite. Full article

Cuprate delafossite phases such as CuMnO₂ (crednerite) and CuFeO₂, as well as iron- and manganese-doped mcconnellite composites, were investigated as candidates for producing intense black ceramic pigments via conventional solid-state synthesis. Both electric kiln and fast dielectric (microwave) firing methods were employed, with mcconnellite (CuCrO₂) used as a reference pigment. Microwave firing led to a marked improvement in sample blackness compared to conventional electric firing. Among the delafossite phases, only mcconnellite subjected to microwave-assisted firing (R_Vis = 1.40%, corresponding to 98.60% visible light absorption) emerges, pending further optimization, as a promising candidate for an ultra-black ceramic pigment (R_Vis < 1%) under optimized glaze conditions (ZnO-free) and a firing temperature of 1000 °C. Considering the pigments in powder form, microwave-fired crednerite (R_Vis = 4.85%, 95.15% absorption) and iron- and iron–manganese-doped mcconnellite composites (R_Vis = 3.27% and 3.23%, respectively) appear as potential candidates for deep-black pigments (R_Vis < 3%), benefiting from the composite effect between the delafossite phase and the associated chromium spinel. Moreover, microwave-fired crednerite also demonstrates noteworthy potential for deep-black coloration in glazed samples (R_Vis = 4.27%, 95.73% absorption). Full article

Surface treatments play a crucial role in modifying the surface properties and biological performance of dental ceramics. This study investigated the effects of surface conditions on the wettability, cytocompatibility, and bacterial resistance of 4 mol% Y₂O₃-stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystal (4Y–TZP) and two lithium disilicate (Li₂Si₂O₅) glass ceramics (Amber^® Mill (AM) and Amber^® Mill Abut-Crown (AC)). Human gingival fibroblast (HGF-1) responses and biofilm formation on the machined, polished, and glazed samples were evaluated. The polished 4Y–TZP sample exhibited the highest water contact angle (WCA; 71.3°), while that of the AC samples decreased as the sample was machined (58.4°), polished (46.8°), and glazed (14.0°). The wettability, cytocompatibility, and bacterial resistance of the dental ceramics were significantly influenced by material type and surface condition. Among the surface-treated samples, the glazed specimens exhibited the lowest WCA and bulk density; thus, wettability is an important factor for cell proliferation and bacterial resistance. Among all samples, HGF-1 cells adhered well to the glazed ceramics and significantly proliferated over time. Particularly, the 4Y–TZP and AC glazed samples exhibited the lowest biomass and strong resistance to biofilm formation and bacterial adhesion. Thus, the glaze dramatically affected HGF-1 cell growth and antibiofilm formation. Full article

In this Special Issue entitled Novel Ceramic Materials: Processes, Properties and Applications, 18 articles are brought together. The contributions illustrated the remarkable versatility of ceramics—from bioceramics that heal bone and fight infection, to solid electrolytes and multiferroics powering clean energy, and glass ceramics and zeolite composites safeguarding our environment. Articles on glazes, archaeological pottery, and innovative joining methods reminded us that ceramic science has bridged deep traditions and modern frontiers. Full article

This article investigates liuli qinglou (琉璃青樓, blue–green glazed pavilions) of medieval China as architectural manifestations of the trans-Eurasian jeweled paradise ideal. Tracing developments from the Northern and Southern Dynasties (420–589 CE) through the Tang dynasty (618–907 CE), it outlines an evolutionary trajectory in representing sacred space: from the use of genuine gemstones in West Asian traditions, through their imitation in glass and glazed ceramics, with applications before the Tang remaining selective and elite, to the ultimate abstraction into symbolic blue–green palettes in the cave murals of Kucha and Dunhuang, where chromatic choices may at times reflect pictorial convention. Integrating textual, archeological, and visual evidence, the study shows how Chinese rulers appropriated imported glazing technologies, together with painted or coated blue–green finishes that simulated liuli effects, not merely for ornamentation but to materially embody Buddhist cosmology and to legitimize imperial authority by creating a terrestrial Buddha land. The pervasive use of qing (青, blue–green) in religious art thus reflects a profound sensory-theological translation, illustrating how Eurasian flows of materials, techniques, and ideas were adapted to shape localized visions of paradise through innovative processes of material and visual transformation. Full article

Archeological ceramics represent values that necessitate preservation from various factors of deterioration. Cleaning processes are beneficial in the preservation of these ceramics. An abundance of cleaning technique and process information exists within the literature. This study examines the current state of both traditional and advanced cleaning techniques employed for archeological ceramics. The review discusses a wide range of commonly used cleaning techniques, including mechanical, dry and wet processes, as well as chemical approaches. Additionally, more recent laser, plasma, and biocleaning methods are discussed. The effectiveness of these techniques is examined, as well as potential damage or surface modifications to the ceramics. The selection of a cleaning method for ceramics depends on the specific characteristics of the ceramic (i.e., porosity, glaze, slip red-slipped, etc.), its state of conservation, and the nature and thickness of the fouling or encrustations. Careful selection and testing of chemical solutions are crucial to prevent damage. While chelating agents like EDTA effectively dissolve crusts and salts, uncontrolled application can weaken ceramic structures. Laponite, natural clay minerals, resins and organic gels (xanthan gum, agar, cellulose powder) are effective in removing contaminants from the surfaces of without causing damage. Environmentally friendly methods such as biocleaning, Pulsed Laser Cleaning, and plasma are effective but underutilized, requiring further investigation. This review emphasizes the growing potential of sustainable and non-invasive methods to complement or replace traditional approaches. Its main contribution lies in providing a critical synthesis that bridges conventional and innovative techniques, outlining research gaps for more effective and eco-responsible conservation of archeological ceramics. Full article

This study investigates a rare case of liquid alcohol preserved in a glazed ceramic vase from the tomb of Li Jurou (AD 1226), Jin dynasty, Xi’an, China, to provide new insights into medieval brewing traditions. We employed a multi-proxy approach combining microfossil and isotopic analysis, experimental brewing with sorghum, and incorporated previously published proteomic data to illuminate its origin. Microfossil analysis revealed yeast cells and starch granules with damage patterns diagnostic of enzymatic saccharification and mashing, indicating the use of malted sorghum and wheat, alongside cooked rice and foxnut. The starch damage features observed in the archaeological sample are consistent with patterns documented in experimental beer brewing with sorghum and wheat/barley. Stable isotope analysis yielded a δ¹³C value of –18.5‰, consistent with mixed C₃ and C₄ inputs. Two-component isotopic modeling revealed that C₄ plant (likely sorghum) contributed 40–50% of the ingredients, with C₃ plants such as wheat, rice, and foxnut making up the remainder. These findings align with proteomic results identifying sorghum proteins in the liquid. The combined evidence distinguishes this beverage from qu-based fermentation and links it instead to li-type brewing, rooted in malted cereals and associated with ritual practices. This represents the earliest direct archaeological evidence of sorghum beer in China, highlighting both technological innovation and cultural adaptation in historical alcohol production. Full article

In this study, the chemical solubility (stability) of yttria-partially stabilized zirconia (2.3Y-TZP) dental ceramics, both glazed (Group 2) and non-glazed samples (Group 1), was evaluated using a modified testing protocol based on ISO 6872:2024. Chemical stability was assessed by measuring ion release with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and by analyzing phase composition with X-ray diffraction (XRD). While ISO 6872 prescribes chemical stability testing in a 4 wt.% aqueous acetic acid solution at 80 °C for 16 h, the exposure duration in this study was extended to 768 h (32 days) to allow a more accurate determination of long-term solubility behavior. Additionally, the surface roughness parameters (R_a, R_max, R_z, S_a, S_q) were analyzed and evaluated before and after solubility testing. Kinetic analysis revealed that degradation followed a near-parabolic rate law, with power-law exponents of n = 2.261 for Group 1 and n = 1.935 for Group 2. The corresponding dissolution rate constants were 3.85 × 10⁻⁵ µgⁿ·cm⁻²ⁿ·h⁻¹ for Group 1 and 132.3 µgⁿ·cm⁻²ⁿ·h⁻¹ for Group 2. XRD results indicated that the long exposure to acetic acid induced a partial phase transformation of zirconia from the tetragonal to the monoclinic phase. Under prolonged acetic exposure, the glaze layer on 2.3Y-TZP exhibited significantly higher dissolution, whereas the zirconia (polished, unglazed) showed low ion release. The temporal change in the total amount of dissolved ions was statistically analyzed for Group 1 and Group 2. The samples showed a strong correlation, but ANOVA confirmed significant differences between them. Full article