Aluminum Silicate (Lava, Sillimanite, Mica)

Aluminum silicate (lava, sillimate, mica) are ceramics containing or based on natural or synthetic aluminosilicate minerals such as sillamanite, fibrolite, or mica. Sillimanite, lava, fibrolite, and aluminum silicate are compounds of silicon, aluminum, and oxygen. Lava is machinable in the unfired state. After firing, lava develops higher hardness and can be used up to 2100°F. Sillimanite (Al2SiO5)is also a naturally occurring mineral that is calcinated through processing. Mica also contains potassium and is characterized by its layer-structure. Mica is fireproof, non-fusing, and can resist temperatures of up to 900°C depending on the type of mica. Mica also has low heat conductivity, excellent thermal stability, and good dielectric or electrical insulation properties. The major types of mica are muscovite, biotite, and phlogopite.