Manganese Oxide

[Wildgeese 1]

Hi Folks, 

I have recently painted a simple design in Magnesium oxide over a white tin glaze which matures between 1100 and 1180 C.  I read since then that Magnesium Oxide is one of the potters more toxic oxides . There is notoriously very little actual data about the safety of many glaze surfaces, but would anyone hazard an opinion as to the safety of this bowl for functional/ food use - given that the oxide is now securely bonded to a stable glaze?    I would love to use/ give this bowl away, but am worried about the toxicity of the oxide which was only put on in a wash solution.  

Any info/ opinions on Magnesium oxide gratefully received. 

Wild goose 

 

Edited September 24, 2019 by Wildgeese
corrected heading to Manganese oxide

[liambesaw 2,755]

I think you mean manganese oxide which is very different.

It is a hazard to the Potter, not as much to the user.  The vapors released when it is fired are extremely toxic, as are the oxide itself when airborne.  Exercise caution when mixing anything containing manganese and make sure your kiln is well ventilated.

Luckily the same thing can be accomplished with a nontoxic stain or iron oxide so if you are worried, switch to something less controversial

[Dick White 399]

Magnesium oxide is a flux that helps a glaze melt and imparts certain characteristics to the glaze surface. It is not generally regarded as toxic, and is found in many over the counter pharmaceuticals. It is not a colorant. Are you asking about manganese dioxide?

[oldlady 2,803]

no comment on your problem, i just love the bears.

[Min 3,433]

6 hours ago, Wildgeese said:

Any info/ opinions on Magnesium oxide gratefully received. 

This is a very good overview of both glaze safety after firing and the use of glazing materials in regards to the potters safety. It includes transition metals (aka heavy metals) including manganese. 

If in doubt then the only positive way to know if the manganese is indeed leaching from the glaze would be to have a sample lab tested which for one pot is probably not a cost effective option. If you do want to get something lab tested Brandywine Science Center was about $30 the last time I had it done. Results could then be compared the with acceptable limits found in drinking water for the specific substance tested for.