Abbots Frit 627 Balanced (Ca-Ba-Bo-K-Na-Si-Al)

Abbots Frit 627 Balanced

Balanced calcium sodium borosilicate frits are commonly used in ceramic glazes to provide a durable, glossy surface with specific melting properties. These frits typically consist of a combination of calcium oxide (CaO), sodium oxide (Na2O), boron oxide (B2O3), and silica (SiO2). They are generally considered safe in their finished form. Abbots Frit 627 forms a useful low temperature clear glaze on its own or with a small addition of kaolin to aid suspension. It is useful as a ‘softener’ to lower the firing temperature of a glaze without substantially changing its other properties. Abbots Frit 627 has the addition advantage of a low coefficient of thermal expansion (COE).

Safety Aspects of Balanced Calcium Sodium Borosilicate Frits:

1. Reduced Solubility and Leaching Risk:
• Frits are produced by melting raw materials at high temperatures and then rapidly cooling them, creating a glassy, non-crystalline structure. This process renders the components (e.g., calcium, sodium, boron) insoluble, which is beneficial for safety in both handling and the final glazed product.
• In the finished, fired glaze, the frit is usually stable, and there is minimal risk of hazardous components leaching out, especially when the glaze has been properly formulated and fired.
2. Inhalation Risks During Handling:
• In its powdered form, frit dust can be hazardous if inhaled. Fine particles of frit can irritate the respiratory tract and, depending on the composition, may carry health risks if inhaled over long periods.
3. Handle frit powders carefully, using appropriate protective gear (e.g., masks, gloves) and working in a well-ventilated area to minimize inhalation of dust.

Notes:

This frit also has the chemistry of a clear glaze as it stands. Unusually, it has an ultra-low COE of only 5.4. Great to add as a substitute for other frits where glazes may be crazing.  Needs some feldspar or nepheline syenite to raise COE to normal levels and of course some kaolin to suspend.