The computational simulation of the reflection spectra of copper red glaze

Abstract

Owing to the limitation of traditional analytical methods, the coloration mechanism of copper red glaze has been disputed in the academic field for a long time, which mainly focuses on whether the color agent is metallic copper nanoparticles or cuprous oxide (Cu2O) nanoparticles. Based on Mie scattering theory, this work calculated the reflection spectra of nanoparticles uniformly dispersed in transparent glaze with different types, diameters, and volume fractions, then discussed the differences between the reflection spectra of metallic copper and cuprous oxide as scatterers, calculated the corresponding L*a*b* values, and compared them with the experimental results. This work provides a feasible and convenient method to distinguish these two coloration mechanisms.

The role of sulphur in the early production of copper red stained glass

“…The ruby red colouring shown by the glasses is due to the presence of metallic copper nanoparticles [2][3][4][5][6][7][8]. Very small particles, typical sizes below 50 nm, are required, as larger precipitates impart a livery red colour to the glass and scatter light, increasing opacity [9,10]. A very low fraction of particles (between 0.02% and 0.05% volume fraction) is also mandatory, as the absorption and scattering of light by the particles drastically reduce the transparency of the glasses.…”