Description

Cobalt oxide is a consistent, reliable oxide and a common colorant in pottery.

It is available in powdered form and is blackish in color.



It is a very strong oxide, and using very small quantities yields bright, intense blues.

In ceramics, cobalt oxide is used mainly in slips, washes and glazes and can be applied through brushwork, decals or other surface decorating techniques.



It can also be added to porcelain or stoneware clay. Because cobalt oxide is not as finely powdered as cobalt carbonate, cobalt oxide is more likely to create blue specks, a quality that we believe can be quite beautiful!



Because of the strength of this oxide as a colorant, glazes containing cobalt can produce halos and flashing during firings. 





Formula

Co3O4



Cas registry number

********1



Synonyms

Cobalt oxide *3%, cobalt oxide frit grade. Black cobalt. tricobalt tetraoxide.



Appearance

Cobalt oxide occurs as a grey to black powder.



Solubility

Cobalt oxide is insoluble in water but soluble in acids.



Uses

Cobalt oxide is mainly used as a pigment for colouring glass and frits.

Sometimes also used as catalyst or as a source for metallic cobalt.



Description

Cobalt oxide is a is a harmful allergenic compound.

It is an inorganic compound and mostly found as tricobalt tetraoxide.

At room temperature is presented as a black odourless solid.



Classification

Cobalt oxide is hazardous to the environment and harmful, if swallowed;

may cause sensitisation by skin contact and is toxic to aquatic organisms

causing long-term adverse effects in aquatic environment.