Hexahydro-1,3,5-tris(2-hydroxyethyl)-s-triazine (commercially known as BK or “triazine biocide”) is widely used in ceramic glaze slurries.
Its main functions can be summarized as follows:
1. Antimicrobial & Antifungal Protection
In summer or high-humidity conditions, glaze slurries are prone to bacterial, yeast, and mold growth, leading to odor, viscosity drop, sedimentation,
and mildew.The triazine is a broad-spectrum, low-toxicity water-based biocide that rapidly inhibits Gram-positive/negative bacteria, molds, and yeasts within the
pH 2–12 and ≤50 °C range of typical slurries, preventing spoilage.
2. Slurry Performance Stabilization
By suppressing microbial metabolism, the additive prevents viscosity fluctuations, thixotropy loss, or screen clogging caused by biodegradation,
ensuring uniform glazing and consistent surface quality.
3. Recommended Dosage & Handling
• Typical addition: 0.1–0.2 % on total slurry weight.
• Method: Add slowly with agitation at the end of ball-milling or during slurry make-up to ensure homogeneous dispersion.
• Caution: Keep temperature below 50 °C; stable in alkaline slurries (pH >9), but avoid simultaneous addition with strong oxidants.
4. Compatibility with Other Systems
The triazine contains no metal ions, nitrates, or organic chlorine, so it does not cause graying or pin-holing of the glaze, nor does it affect the
color development of cobalt blue, chrome green, or other pigment-containing glazes. It is compatible with anionic, cationic, and non-ionic additives.
5. Safety & Storage
Supplied as a colorless to pale-yellow viscous liquid in 25 kg or 200 kg plastic drums; shelf life is 12–24 months when stored closed at
ambient temperature away from light. Wear rubber gloves and goggles during handling to avoid skin and eye contact.
In short, the triazine acts as a “microbial stabilizer” in ceramic glaze slurries, extending storage life, maintaining processing properties,
and reducing waste and environmental issues caused by spoilage—all at very low dosage levels.
