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is there a manganese substitute?

updated thu 9 feb 06

 

Robert Fox on mon 6 feb 06


I really like the look of glazes high in manganese, but I do not want to use
it because of how toxic it is. Is there any substitute that could possibly
give somewhat similar results?

Thank You

Adam Yungbluth on tue 7 feb 06


I do not think there is anything that can compare. I say just be careful
and use manganese, there is nothing like it. Use a good mask, a good pair
of gloves, and a good vent system.


>From: Robert Fox
>Reply-To: Clayart
>To: CLAYART@LSV.CERAMICS.ORG
>Subject: is there a manganese substitute?
>Date: Mon, 6 Feb 2006 22:45:05 -0500
>
>I really like the look of glazes high in manganese, but I do not want to
>use
>it because of how toxic it is. Is there any substitute that could possibly
>give somewhat similar results?
>
>Thank You
>
>___

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Kathi LeSueur on tue 7 feb 06


>> From: Robert Fox
>>
>> I really like the look of glazes high in manganese, but I do not want to
>> use
>> it because of how toxic it is. Is there any substitute that could
>> possibly
>> give somewhat similar results?>>>>
>

I have a glaze with a high amount of manganese. It's my most popular
glaze and I've used it for over fifteen years. Seven years ago I was
tested for heavy metals because of a problem with sense of smell. I was
find. In the past year I've participated in two medical research
studies. Extensive testing was done including blood work. I'm happy to
say that they find me very healthy.

I think that manganese can be used safely if you treat it (and all
chemicals with respect). This means use a mask when mixing glazes. Have
proper ventilation when firing, and keep a clean work area by damp
mopping and sponging frequently.


Kathi

>>
>>
>>

Ivor and Olive Lewis on wed 8 feb 06


Dear Robert Fox,=20

No, there is no substitute for Manganese. It has unique and desirable =
qualities.

If Manganese dioxide is well contained in a bright transparent well =
matured glaze and not used as a liner for plates and other utensils why =
should we anticipate harm from its use. Just be sure to take precautions =
when you are compounding your glazes from the raw chemical.

Manganese is, after all, one of the few Transition Metals that react =
chemically with Silica to form a durable Manganese Silicate, also known =
as the Gemstone Rhodonite. I wish the same could be said for Copper. Who =
can name the other stable Transition Element Silicates ?

It is my belief that this attitude of fear regarding Manganese dioxide =
and carbonate is preventing us from exploiting what should be some =
wonderful results. It is more than thirty years since I produced a pot =
with a wonderful Violet colouration from a glaze containing Manganese. =
Had to give that away when we emigrated. And my original notes went in =
the bin.

Do some trials. Do, or have done, leaching test to really find out if =
you are concerned and would like to feel safe.

My latest results show that I can get very interesting and unexpected =
surfaces with Manganese Dioxide in a Soda Felspar Glaze.

Best regards,

Ivor Lewis.
Redhill,
South Australia.