THE OXIDATION OF CERAMIC WARES DURING FIRING.—I. SOME REACTIONS OF A WELL KNOWN FIRE CLAY1

After a review of the literature, a chemical laboratory study is made of the gases evolved on heating a lower Kittanning fire clay at various rates to various temperatures in a current of pure oxygen. The rates of evolution of CO2, SO2, and SO3 are determined under varying conditions. Determinations of the remaining sulphur in the clay after heating are made. Possibilities as to the chemical mechanism of sulphur evolution are suggested. Plans for continuation of the work are outlined.