Baotou marks rare earth breakthrough

A selection of ceramic samples submitted by Baotou Rare Earth Research and Development Center of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) boast antibacterial properties, marking a breakthrough in Chinese rare earth glaze ceramics R&D, according to a detection report released by Guangdong Detection Center of Microbiology (GDDCM).

The rare earth glaze ceramics project is one of the key initiatives developed by the Baotou Rare Earth Research and Development Center of the CAS.

Through independent R&D, the rare earth elements are combined with traditional minerals, and the unique electronic layer structure is used to add color to the glaze, and is fired at a high temperature of about 1300 degrees Celsius to form glaze effects such as snowflakes, rainbows, cherry blossoms, shining stars, and ice cracks.

It is resistant to wear, corrosion, and radiation, and has lead-free cadmium dissolution.  The ceramic pieces have both practical and artistic value.

The rare earth-modified inorganic antibacterial component in the rare earth glaze can effectively destroy the bacterial cell membrane and inhibit the proliferation of bacteria, thereby exerting an antibacterial effect.

The project has applied for four related patents. A pilot demonstration production line has been developed and industrial production is expected to start soon. 

New environmentally-friendly rare earth glaze ceramic products developed by the Baotou Rare Earth Research and Development Center of the Chinese Academy of Sciences boast different colors and patterns, Feb 1. [Photo/Xinhua]