Nepheline Syenite for Ceramic Plank Tiles

Ceramic planks (wood-look tiles in elongated formats like 200x1200mm or 150x900mm) are one of the fastest-growing tile segments globally.

Application Overview

These tiles must combine full porcelain-grade vitrification (water absorption below 0.5%) with exceptional dimensional control — the narrow, elongated format makes warping and bowing highly visible when installed in a straight line. Nepheline syenite contributes to plank tile success through three mechanisms: its wide firing range reduces the sensitivity to temperature gradients along the kiln width (critical for long, narrow formats); its high alumina content increases the viscosity of the glass phase, helping resist bowing during firing; and its low iron content ensures the white body needed as a base for realistic wood-look digital printing. We recommend K200 for premium planks and K100 for standard production. Use 22-28% nepheline in the body formulation..