Decoration of the Front Ceramic Brick by the Method of Engobing

Introduction. The ceramic face brick, which comes with a range of surfaces, shapes and color palettes, is highly sought in the Russian construction market. Engobing is an effective method of color decoration of ceramic bricks, however, an individual selection of an engobe composition for each type of product in a factory setting is critical considering a raw material base used, production modes and a necessary aesthetic solution. In the context of import substitution, the issue of replacing European manufacturers of decorative coatings and organizing the manufacturing of engobes at Russian enterprises has gained relevance. The aim of the study is a comprehensive investigation of the engobing method in order to obtain face bricks with high aesthetic characteristics, stable performance and its introduction into production in view of the domestic construction market.

Materials and Methods. For the experiments, two types of 1NF face bricks with a smooth surface were selected as the basic products for applying an angular layer: red and brown one produced by means of the plastic molding technology. The compositions of engobes for decoration were developed using frit from the Dulevsky Paint Factory in three main colors: whitebeige, brown and graphite. Laboratory studies of engobe coatings, semi-industrial tests of compositions with various options for applying to bricks, as well as of the properties of finished products were performed as part of the research.

Research Results. As a result, 8 compositions of engobes were developed and approved that after burning provided a defect-free and durable coating of the spoon and poke surfaces of the bricks, and methods of applying engobes were set forth for aesthetic expressiveness of the product itself as well as the brickwork.

Discussion and Conclusion. One of the brick factories in the south of Russia was tasked with developing non-ferrous cast compositions considering studies and analysis of global trends in brick design and consumer demand as well as with decorating ceramic face bricks in production conditions. These experiments were successfully implemented in production, which boosted the volume of products sold in the construction market of the south of the Russian Federation, expanded architectural and design possibilities for new planning solutions. The results obtained in the field of brick color decoration are in alignment with the factory parameters, marketing goals as well as economically profitable allowing for expansion of the range of manufactured and sought products in the domestic construction market.

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