A HighTemperature Kiln Using Propane Gas

or A Yellow Golden Glass without Borax

Ditmar Dan Dullies

There are many ways in which antimony may be vitrified. Basil Valentine advises the best way of preparing glass of antimony is without addition of any fluxing agents. This glass is endowed with the greatest virtue and power which it manifests after its further preparation.

To attain a yellow glass of antimony trioxide (Sb203) without the addition of any fluxing agent (e.g., borax), a higher temperature is required than if antimony fume is used.

The problem nowadays exists in finding a heat source that is inexpensive, yet delivers a temperature high enough (1200-1500oC) to come up with the desired results.

Many experiments with different gas burners and electric kilns were carried out to make a yellow glass from antimony trioxide, but the level of maturity attained was always unsatisfactory (biscuity appearance).

Finally, a used pottery kiln made from asbestos cement was converted (see diagram) by drilling two 6 cm. holes (inlet for gas burner) and a 6 cm. outlet hole on the opposite side. The gas torch (5 cm. diameter) was operated with propane gas. In the beginning of the experiments the antimony trioxide turned into regulus within 20 minutes. It seemed that insufficient oxygen reached the furnace chamber. Better results were obtained by placing the gas torch 5 cm. outside the inlet hole (more oxygen was

drawn into the furnace), but best results were achieved by leaving the furnace door open: a golden yellow glass was attained within 30 minutes.

By using Morgan refractory fireclay crucibles it is possible that moisture is trapped in the porous material. To prevent cracking it is very important to preheat the fireclay crucible gradually to