The study delves into the microbial communities associated with ceramic raw materials and slips to investigate their potential role in enhancing the rheological properties of ceramics. By employing both culture-dependent and -independent techniques, the research identified a diverse array of bacteria and fungi in the clay raw materials and ceramic suspensions. Notably, the presence of potential exopolysaccharide (EPS) producers such as Sphingomonas sp., Pseudomonas xanthomarina, and Acinetobacter lwoffii was observed, indicating the capacity for these microorganisms to influence ceramic properties through EPS production.
The findings underscore the significance of microbial communities in ceramic processing, suggesting that these microorganisms could play a crucial role in controlling viscosity, gelation, and flocculation processes in ceramics. The study’s consistent results from different analytical approaches reinforce the validity of the identified microbial species and their potential impact on ceramic performance. The presence of EPS producers in the samples opens up avenues for further exploration into leveraging these microorganisms to optimise the rheological properties and mechanical strength of ceramic materials.
Moreover, the study proposes future research directions to explore the practical application of EPS in ceramic manufacturing processes, aiming to enhance the overall quality and performance of technical ceramics. The identified microbial species offer promising prospects for future investigations into utilising EPS to improve ceramic properties, indicating a potential paradigm shift in leveraging microbial communities for advancements in the ceramic industry. Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the microbial composition of ceramic raw materials and their implications for ceramic properties, laying the groundwork for innovative approaches in ceramic material science.
