CCE Selection & Application of Materials & Equipment for Ceramics 3

Question 1

Which ceramic colorant produces a reliable blue color in both oxidation and reduction firing atmospheres?

Accepted Answer

Cobalt oxide

Answer

Cobalt oxide consistently produces blue color across different kiln atmospheres, unlike iron and copper which are highly atmosphere-sensitive.

Question 2

What is the primary function of a pug mill in a ceramics studio?

Accepted Answer

Reclaim, deair, and homogenize clay

Answer

A pug mill reclaims scrap clay by compressing and de-airing it through an auger system, producing a homogeneous, air-free clay body.

Question 3

When applying glaze by spraying, which factor most directly controls the thickness of the glaze application?

Accepted Answer

The specific gravity of the glaze and number of spray passes

Answer

Spray thickness depends on how much material is deposited per pass, which is governed by glaze specific gravity and the number of overlapping spray coats.

Question 4

Which material is commonly added to a clay body to open the texture and improve resistance to thermal shock in raku ware?

Accepted Answer

Grog

Answer

Grog (pre-fired, crushed clay) opens the clay body, reduces shrinkage, and improves thermal shock resistance critical for raku's rapid heating and cooling.

Question 5

A glaze recipe calls for a high amount of calcium carbonate (whiting). What role does calcium serve in the glaze melt?

Accepted Answer

High-temperature flux and stabilizer

Answer

Calcium functions as a high-temperature flux that lowers melting point and also stabilizes the glaze melt, improving durability in the fired surface.

(CCE) Certified Ceramist Practice Test

(CCE) Certified Ceramist Practice Test

CCE Selection & Application of Materials & Equipment for Ceramics 3