Clay Body Development of Na Tham Clay Along the Chi River for Ceramic Sculpture Creations

Abstract

This academic article aims to present the development and property improvement of clay sourced from the Na Tham area along the Chi River in Ban Po Daeng, Maha Sarakham Province, for use in ceramic sculpture creations. The local clay is classified as Earthenware; therefore, this study seeks to enhance its performance to withstand firing temperatures of 1,200 °C, reaching the Stoneware level. The process began with field assessments of the clay's primary physical properties, followed by experimental research to reduce shrinkage and increase refractoriness using the 36-point Triaxial Blending System, with sand and kaolin as the primary additives. This research specifically focuses on technical physical properties and fired color results, without in-depth chemical analysis or glaze firing tests. The results indicate that the developed clay bodies exhibited a fired shrinkage range from 1% to 14%, with the proportion of sand directly influencing shrinkage stability. The researcher selected Formula 3 (70% Na Tham clay, 10% sand, and 20% kaolin) for ceramic sculpture creation due to its unique fired color that meets aesthetic requirements. Although this formula has a total shrinkage rate of 14%, which caused some partial cracking, these issues can be resolved through systematic moisture control and regulated drying processes. This study confirms the potential of Na Tham clay in expanding its utility for ceramic sculpture arts and serves as a guideline for developing other potential regional clay resources in the future.