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Re: applying images to ceramicsWARNING




I assume, naturally, that people check what they are handling before they
actually start.

Dichromates are regular ceramic materials, just as many other chemicals. We
actually use dichromates as a component in glazes and ceramic colors in far
bigger quantities then any of you photographers could ever dream of.

Ceramic people are far more negligent with chemicals then what they should
have been. The only hope we have is that most modern ceramic studios are
having good ventilation and people are more aware of  health hazards, so
most use gloves and masks.

The most basic thing is NOT TO BE IN THE SAME ROOM WHERE THE KILN IS FIRING
when it is firing.

Most professional places have a separate kiln room with good ventilation. It
is much worse with hobby-ceramists, who usually place their kilns in the
kitchen and bake salmon in it for their guests.

But Sarah is right, I can tell you some stories about ceramic people eating
from the same bowl, where they have been mixing lead glaze.

So it is important to learn a bit before mixing and burning, just as in any
other field.

One should always show respect for the unknown, shouldn´t one ?

Galina.

on 07-04-2001 05:45, Sarah Van Keuren at svk@steuber.com wrote:

>>I have felt nervous about encouraging
>>a firing of dichromate but I suppose it is no worse that many other common
>>glaze ingredients
 
Proceed at your peril. It is a dangerous material - ESPECIALLY when it is
heated. This chemical is not to be taken lightly. Ammonium Dichromate is a
known Carcinogen, it is toxic by inhalation and/or ingestion and serious
lung damage can result from breathing the dust. It can cause liver and
kidney damage as well as cause external ulcers.

Do NOT assume it is safer than other ingredients used in ceramics. Simply
not the case. 

If you want to experiment with the process, do so with these facts in mind.
Additionally, make sure the people or facility where the kiln is located is
completely aware that you are using a dangerous material. Let them decide if
they want to allow you to proceed.

As for common glaze ingredients - yes, there are potential hazards. but
nothing like Dichromate.

B.

Thank you Bob. I will print copies of your email to go with Galina's useful
email. I knew the perils of dichromate but thought maybe that was normal in
the world of glazes. Thank you for setting me straight.

I had this impression partly because a few years ago an elderly ceramic
artist offered me some fine old (maybe from the 1930's) yellow glaze that
was an isotope of uranium to donate to whoever wanted it. I politely
declined the offer and was glad I had after reading that any form of uranium
would indeed be somewhat radioactive. But when she was trained the hazard
was not recognized, I imagine.

Sarah  




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