Ditmar/Gayle on tue 4 nov 97
Depleted uranium is probably less dangerous than many things potters use
already.
The danger with anything is in improper care, use, or application of the
material. A 100 pound sack of flour is dangerous if you drop it on your
head, or ignite it's dust.
If someone is going to use a material for any purpose, it behooves them to
get all the information first ( including appropriate or intended use of
the finished product, and proper waste disposal ), realistically judge
their own capabilities, and proceed with proper measures in place.
I tend to look at clayart quite literally. Clay + art. Not everyone is a
potter concerned with the safety of the USE of the product. Aesthetics are
for everyone involved in clay, however, it's the prime motivation in
non-functional pieces. Getting that color or texture is more important than
" does it leach anything ".
There is a definite use for the range of properties that some of the more "
dangerous " or exotic materials provide. Many of these uses are exclusive
to non-functional ceramic art. A sculptural piece loaded with barium or
lead ( etc. ) is only a problem to it's creator, and he is the one
responsible to himself to be familiar with his materials.
The occasional post asking for legitimate information on exotics and toxics
should be treated with no less respect than a request for other
information. If you have the information and safety advice share it, but
don't start preaching .
There is a whole world of almost lost information out there. Kept in a
limbo due to political correctness. Keeping some of it alive in the art
produced or if nothing else, by the discussion and dissemination of the
skills from those familiar with the older styles and techniques. It's a
history of pottery and clay saved from being lost.
No doubt we've admired Fiesta ware and some of us marveled at the
fluorescent depth of uranium glass. Many tiles and vibrant pieces that are
expensive collectibles owe their color to uranium, lead, cadmium, selenium
etc...... glazes that have a palette difficult to match.
I don't advocate that anyone start using toxics, however, please recognize
the place and/or history of these materials.
From Alohaland, Ditmar.
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