Smalt is what? Patterns from a mosaic smalt

The design of surfaces with mosaic patterns has recently been very popular. However, true connoisseurs of original styles do not leave this direction of decor. Compositions of many elements of different shapes and structures are used in private houses and in the decoration of public buildings. The main thing is to correctly determine the characteristics of the material used. One of the most interesting solutions of this kind is smalt. This is a mosaic pattern formed by a silenced glass. Such compositions are valued not only for an unusual aesthetic effect, but also for physical properties that are advantageous in terms of operation.

What is smalt?

The rich history of technological processes for the production of mosaic panels made of glass caused an ambiguous definition of smalt. In different historical periods the material for such compositions was presented in different ways. The union of different concepts occurred through two components. First of all, these are glass fragments, and then additives, due to which the elements of the mosaic got this or that shade. The classic for smalt is the blue color, which was obtained due to the compositions based on cobalt and silicic acid. To date, this term is often called ready-made glass fragments for the formation of panels. Mosaic smalt, the photo of which is presented below, is an example of the already final application of this material.

Varieties

Any decorative material for mosaic suggests the possibility of obtaining a wide range of stylistic solutions. The provision of elements of smalt with different textural and textural properties is due to the use of various glass processing technologies. In particular, the basic state of smalt, which has a transparent hue, is achieved by means of flame retardant dyes. Traditional techniques involve the production of opal or deaf fragments. In other methods of processing, smalt-stone is obtained, which is also endowed with high strength indicators. For example, elements with gold and silver shades are formed by pressing the foil between different layers of glass. Interesting and the option in the form of a spotty or wiry smalt. Such a product is obtained due to a special heat treatment, after which the components are introduced into the composition, empowering the structure with certain shades.

Technique for making smalt

From the production of the material itself to the final formation of the decorative composition, it is necessary to perform several technological steps. It starts with the fact that smalt is basically a glass product, obtained as a result of special processing methods. As a rule, ordinary glass is crushed to form a fine, almost powdery mass. To endow the mixture with a suitable shade, metalized oxides are also introduced, which also affect the future structure of the smalt. It is important to note that large dyes are not used by artificial dyes.

Further, the resulting mass is heated to a high temperature - about 800 degrees. This process provides the sintering of the material, which can be subjected and molded. The most common forms are rectangles, triangles, ovals and various polyhedra. The fact is that at this stage smalt is a malleable material that can be handled with plasticine. Therefore, it is possible to create stylized complex figures. So, for example, create patterns with elements that mimic the rain, sun rays, etc.

Smalt properties

Mosaic compositions seem unprotected from external influences, especially mechanical properties. But this does not apply to smalt. Again, the introduction of metallic oxides gives the structure and such qualities as strength, rigidity, wear resistance and, as a result, durability. What is especially important, the staining technique involves filling with color pigments throughout the structure, so the material does not fade and does not lose its original color. Also, mosaic smalt successfully resists atmospheric influences - from the sun and frost to heavy rainfall. Close contact with water does not harm fragments of smalt, so it can be used in the decoration of bath rooms, swimming pools and baths. True, in the protective qualities of completed laid compositions, much depends on the binding agent - as a rule, plasticizing cement mixtures, on which elements are fixed.

Pros and cons of smalt

The advantages of smalt rightly include decorative properties. To achieve an unusual stylistic effect, many artificial products also allow. But none of this kind of material will not provide even a feeling of naturalness close to smalt. Therefore, technologists strongly do not recommend the use of artificial colors - the exclusion of such additives guarantees the depth and purity of the texture perception. Also do not forget that smalt is a material melted from glass, made with the use of molding technology. This technological nuance of manufacturing causes the possibility of excluding sharp edges from the fragments, which, in turn, facilitates the care for them. The disadvantages of the smalt include the complexity of the technique and high cost. The independent manufacture of such elements does not always meet expectations, so many art connoisseurs initially turn to the products of professionals.

How much does the ready-made smalt cost?

Smaltu is sold in different formats. The most common implementation of packages, which contain elements of a certain mass. For example, a kilogram of such fragments for a future mosaic may cost about 1-1.5 thousand rubles. The specific price tag depends on the format of the elements themselves, the technique of their manufacture and the color solution. Available in the market and finished smalt - tiles of different formats. So, a small panel 300x300 mm can cost 400-500 rubles. Obviously, it is more advantageous to purchase fragments for weight, which have not yet been packed into the finished composition. The same kilogram will suffice for the decoration of the whole zone along the wall. Another thing is that the laying process is also difficult and requires the presence of certain knowledge from the performer.

Conclusion

The technology of creating mosaic compositions has always been considered the most complex way of decorating. This is confirmed by a pattern from smalt, which is distinguished by a unique design effect. Today, the use of classic bright blue fragments of smalt is practiced, and experiments with details simulating the texture of precious stones and metals. Use the same smalt in a variety of places - universality of application is also one of the main advantages of this material.