Project Objectives

 

Main Objective:


Development of innovative methods for the synthesis and application of mullite and mullite–corundum ceramic pigments using both pure and waste raw materials, with the aim of achieving sustainable and environmentally efficient production.

Specific Objectives:

  1. Development of optimal technological conditions for pigment synthesis

    • Determination of parameters such as firing temperature, soaking time, type and amount of mineralizers;

    • Analysis of the influence of raw material composition on the formation of mullite and mullite–corundum phases.

  2. Investigation of the influence of various chromophores on phase composition and coloring

    • Systematic introduction of Co, Cu, Ni, Cr, Fe, and Mn ions;

    • Evaluation of their effect on the color, structure, and stability of the pigments;

    • Analysis of spectral and microstructural characteristics for complete pigment characterization.

  3. Comparative analysis of synthesis methods: solid-state sintering and sol–gel

    • Study of the efficiency and influence of each methodology on the resulting material;

    • Identification of advantages and disadvantages of each approach;

    • Determination of the most suitable conditions for industrial application.

  4. Assessment of the potential for using waste raw materials

    • Application of industrial wastes such as rice husks and spent catalysts (e.g., from Lukoil Neftochim – Burgas);

    • Recalculation of the chemical composition of starting mixtures based on oxide content;

    • Demonstration of the environmental and economic benefits of recycling waste in pigment production.