DIOPSIDE MARBLE-LIKE SINTERED GLASS-CERAMICS

Experimental results on the synthesis of a new marble-like glass-ceram ic material to be used for wall covering are given. The material is pr epared by sintering and surface-induced crystallization of a precursor frit. In contrast to usual glass-ceramic materials similar to natural marbles and granites, where the major crystalline phase is beta-wolla stonite (CaO . SiO2), in the new material diopside (CaO . MgO . 2 SiO2 ) is formed. Due to the enhanced crystallization ability of the initia l glasses, the duration of the heat treatment needed for the synthesis of the new materials can be considerably reduced.