Is Ceramics Heat Resistant?

Ceramics are everywhere in everyday life, our daily life can not be separated from porcelain, clay products, ceramic tableware, ceramic pans, and other daily ceramics. However, many people may not understand the heat resistance of ceramics when using them.

Because it has special physical and chemical properties, in fact, ceramics have a very great resistance to heat, especial for using at high-temperature conditions. Of course, this does not mean being ‘unlimited’; rather, a proper understanding of ceramics’ heat-resistant characteristics in application will make it a better application, extending service time.

Next, we talk about the heat resistance of the ceramics on professional ground and analyze the thermodynamic characteristics of the daily use of ceramics.

Basic Structure and Heat Resistance of Ceramic Materials

Ceramic is a kind of solid material made of inorganic non-metal materials, the ordinary main composition of ceramics includes oxides, nitrides, silicates, and more. Their main characteristics are: it has a hard structure, and it’s resistant to corrosion, wear, and it resists temperature very strongly. The ability of ceramics resistant to temperature is closely connected with their microstructure, especially such physical properties as crystal structure, heat expansion coefficient, and heat conductivity.

Crystal Structure and Heat Resistance

Most ceramic materials owe their heat resistance to the properties of their crystal structure. Crystal structures in ceramics are usually compact and stable; this makes them resistant to molecular motion and structural changes due to high temperatures. For example, alumina, Al₂O₃
, has a very stable crystal structure, which enables it to retain its physical properties for long periods at high temperature and is widely used in industrial equipment that resists high temperature.

Low Thermal Expansion Coefficient

Ceramic materials have a relatively low coefficient of thermal expansion, meaning it does not undergo extreme dimensional changes with heat or cooling. Under conditions of large temperature differences, the low thermal expansion characteristics of ceramics mean that, unlike metal materials, it does not suffer from thermal stress deformation or fracture. This is why ceramic utensils can maintain their form during frequent heating and cooling.

High Melting Point and Thermal Stability

The melting point for ceramics is usually very high, which is also the ground for high temperature resistance of ceramics. Taking common porcelain as an example, its melting point is generally above 1200°C, while the melting point of alumina is higher, reaching about 2050°
C. Due to the high melting point of ceramics, they will not melt under high temperature or change in morphology, especially in high-temperature cooking or industrial environments.

Thermal Conductivity and Thermal Uniformity

The thermal conductivity of ceramic is lower, and then it transfers heat slowly. In domestic ceramics, with low thermal conductivity, maintaining heat preservation for a longer period of time and maintaining the temperature of food is possible. This property also enables ceramic to prevent food from destruction too fast by too much heat.

Practical Application of Domestic Ceramics: Performance In High Temperature Environments

Due to the excellent heat resistance of ceramics, a large number of ceramic products are used to carry high temperature objects in daily life. Let’s look at some practical applications of daily ceramic products:

セラミック食器

Ceramic tableware is generally made of high-temperature-fired porcelain or pottery, which can easily resist the high temperatures of everyday use, such as hot water, hot soups, and hot dishes. Daily porcelain is usually fired at a high temperature above 1200°C. After high-temperature treatment, their molecular structure is very stable and will not be deformed or release harmful substances due to contact with hot soup or high-temperature food when used.

Ceramic Cookware

Ceramic cookware is capable of evenly transferring heat, not only suitable for high-temperature baking or braising but also in a certain temperature range to bear high temperatures without any damage. The low thermal conductivity of ceramics means they warm up more slowly but distribute the heat evenly and over long periods. Unlike metal cookware, ceramic cookware stays hotter for longer at high temperatures, which helps with slow cooking.

セラミックベイクウェア

High temperatures usually above 200°C will also remain stable when it comes to ceramic baking dishes and baking bowls. Heat resistance in a ceramic oven is quite important in that it distributes heat equally and keeps food moist, hence not getting it burnt by extreme heat.

Ceramic Teaware

Ceramic tea and coffee utensils can effectively maintain the temperature of drinks because of their good thermal stability. The ceramic surface can slowly dissipate heat, making the temperature of tea and coffee more stable, and will not affect the taste due to temperature fluctuations.

Precautions for Daily Use Ceramics

Although the heat resistance of ceramic materials is good, in use, it still needs to pay attention to the following points to avoid the ceramic product from being damaged by improper operation.

Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes

Although ceramics can remain stable at high temperatures, the thermal shock effect may cause cracks or cracks in ceramics under severe temperature changes. For example, placing ceramic cutlery from the oven directly into cold water can cause the temperature to change too quickly and break. When using ceramics, extreme cold and heat differences should be avoided.

Master the Heat Resistance Limits of Ceramic Ware

Each ceramic product has its heat resistance limit, which should be avoided when used. Although ceramics can withstand high temperatures, excessive temperatures may cause damage to some materials during prolonged use. Therefore, when baking or cooking, it is important to understand the applicable temperature range of ceramic products.

Check the Ceramic Surface Regularly

Frequently used ceramic products, especially tableware and cookeware, may have cracks or defects on the surface. Cracks not only affect the appearance of the ceramic, but also may reduce the heat resistance of the ceramic, so you should check regularly and avoid continuing to use cracked or damaged ceramic products.

Proper Cleaning and Maintenance

When cleaning ceramic products, avoid using too hard cleaning tools. Ceramics surface is usually smooth, if long-term use of hard brush or steel ball cleaning, may scratch the surface, affecting its thermal stability. A soft cloth and a mild cleaning agent are recommended.

Sum Up

Because of its high melting point, low thermal expansion coefficient, and good thermal stability, ceramics have become the ideal high-temperature resistant materials in daily life. In the kitchen,and on the table, ceramics can withstand high-temperature cooking needs, while maintaining excellent performance. However, ceramics also have certain limitations, especially sensitive to sudden temperature changes, so when using ceramic products, we should pay attention to avoid rapid temperature changes, and regularly check the integrity of the appliance.

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