Study of sintering behaviour and mechanical-physical properties of porous glass ceramic

Abstract This study aims to investigate the effects of soaking time and heating rate on the sintering behaviour and mechanical-physical properties of porous glass ceramic to use as tiles for building applications. A sample of porous glass ceramic containing silica sand, soda lime glass waste, clay binder, and carbonate foaming agent has been mixed and pressed into a button shape at 20 tonnes, sintered at 910 °C using a heating rate of 2.5, 5, and 5 °C/min, a and soaked for 10, 20, and 30 minutes. The sample is characterised by bulk density, water absorption, MOR, and microstructure. The study finds that a 20-minute soaking time at a 5 °C/min heating rate results in the highest Modulus of Rupture (MOR) of 29.23 MPa, while a 10-minute soaking time at a 2.5 °C/min heating rate yields a lower MOR of 13.51 MPa indicating that the material strength is improved. Bulk density decreases with shorter soaking time (10 min) and increases with longer times (up to 30 min). Water absorption is reduced with a higher heating rate after 20 minutes. The microstructure of the porous glass ceramic displays a flat surface with fine, interconnected irregular shapes and varying pore sizes. SEM analysis confirms that controlling heating rate and soaking time enhances the ceramic’s physical and mechanical properties.