Table of Contents
Porcelain
Porcelain is a ceramic material made by heating raw materials, generally including kaolin, in a kiln to temperatures between 1,200 and 1,400 °C (2,200 and 2,600 °F). The toughness, strength, and translucency of porcelain arise mainly from vitrification and the formation of the mineral mullite within the body at these high temperatures.
In the tableware industry, porcelain is considered the standard for both professional hospitality and domestic use due to its exceptional durability and non-porous nature.
1. Key Characteristics
- Durability: Fired at extremely high temperatures, porcelain is harder and more chip-resistant than earthenware or stoneware.
- Non-Porous: It does not absorb liquids, fats, or odors, making it highly hygienic and easy to clean.
- Thermal Shock Resistance: Quality porcelain can typically withstand rapid temperature changes better than other ceramics.
- Color: Natural porcelain has a distinct “cool” white or slightly bluish-white tint, compared to the warm ivory tone of Bone China.
2. Hard-Paste vs. Soft-Paste Porcelain
| Type | Composition | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Hard-Paste | Kaolin + Petuntse (Fieldspar) | The “true” porcelain. Extremely hard, glassy, and resonant. |
| Soft-Paste | Mixtures of clay and ground glass | Developed in Europe to mimic Chinese porcelain; less durable than hard-paste. |
3. Porcelain vs. Bone China: Which to Choose?
While often confused, the two materials serve different needs:
- Texture: Porcelain is generally thicker and heavier, giving it a “substantial” feel. Bone China is thinner and more delicate.
- Appearance: Porcelain has a clinical, crisp white look, making it a favorite for modern, minimalist table settings.
- Price: Generally, high-quality porcelain is more affordable than Fine Bone China, making it ideal for large-scale catering.
4. Professional Use (HORECA)
Porcelain is the preferred material for the HORECA (Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering) sector because:
- It is Stackable: Designed with reinforced edges for heavy-duty use.
- It is Microwave & Oven Safe: Ideal for reheating and professional kitchen workflows.
- It is Dishwasher Safe: Resists the abrasive chemicals used in industrial dishwashers.
5. Notable Manufacturers
- Villeroy & Boch (Germany)
- Meissen (Germany) - The birthplace of European hard-paste porcelain.
- Bernardaud (France/Limoges)
- Apilco (France) - Renowned for professional culinary porcelain.
— Maintenance Tip: To keep your porcelain looking new, avoid using metal scouring pads which can leave “metal marks” (grey streaks) on the glaze. Use specialized cleaners if these marks appear.