Oxidation is the opposite of reduction and refers to a kiln atmosphere where enough oxygen are present to fully combust the fuel. To gain heat in a kiln the atmosphere must be one of oxidation. In an oxidizing kiln atmosphere (no smoke - and an excess of oxygen) any metal present in the body or glaze will be turned into their oxidized states, which is rust red for iron, green for copper, blue for cobalt, and so on.
See also: Reduction firing
A
Back to Gotheborg.com Home Page