Description
Copper carbonate is a fine green or bluish-green powder used in pottery as a glaze, slip, or wash colorant to produce greens, turquoises, and reds.
Properties and Effects
- Colour Range: Creates greens and turquoises in oxidation firings, and vibrant copper reds in reduction firings.
- Comparison to Copper Oxide: Weaker and less intense than copper oxide, but disperses more evenly and is less prone to unwanted speckling.
- Volatility: Highly volatile during firing; it can vaporize and flash onto adjacent pieces in the kiln, altering their colours as well.
- Gassing: Decomposes and releases gas during firing, which can cause micro-bubbles, blistering, or pinholes if percentages are too high. Usage Guidelines
- Glazes: Typically used under 5% concentration; amounts over 5% can turn the glaze into a metallic pewter.
- Slips: Recommended at 2% to 8% concentration.
- Washes: Can be mixed with water and brushed directly onto bisqueware for an antiquing or surface wash effect.
- Food Safety: Avoid using copper-containing glazes on interior surfaces of functional tableware, as copper easily leaches into acidic food and drink.
Safety and Purchasing Options
- Handling Safety: Harmful if inhaled or swallowed; always wear a dust mask/respirator and gloves when handling dry powder to avoid skin irritation or toxicity.
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