The color appearing on ceramic surfaces represents the most expressive language reflecting the spirit of the form; these colors come to life through the mysterious transformations that glazes underground during their dance with fire. The Çukurova Region is one of the earliest settlements of humankind. Due to its geomorphological structure, the soils of the region provide opportunities for utilization in ceramics. In this study, the usability of the Salbaş clay, extracted from Salbaş village in the Çukurova district of Adana, as a coloring agent in ceramic bodies and in industrial coating materials such as floor and wall tiles was investigated. In addition to its direct application as a colorant on ceramic bodies, Salbaş clay was also used with different proportions of aluminate and silicate additives, and the resulting color tones were examined. In the experimental studies, the color changes obtained after the firing process were quantitatively expressed within the framework of CIE L*a*b* color coordinates. The pigment obtained from Salbaş clay showed an increase in color intensity after firing above 1192°C. A wide color scale ranging from golden yellow to dark mustard tones was achieved. High visual impact semi-matte and glossy textures were also observed. Following these studies, it was revealed that Salbaş clay can be used as a coloring agent in industrial coating materials and printing technologies.
Keywords: Salbaş clay, ceramics, Çukurova