Plastic composition based on cremated remains

Abstract

The main objective of the present invention is to provide a novel sintered body that contains calcium phosphate as a main component and can be molded at room temperature before firing. [Solution] The present invention can include, for example, a plastic composition containing calcium phosphate, a flux, and an organic binder as a molding aid, which is used as a raw material for a sintered body. Effect: The plastic composition of the present invention makes it possible to obtain a sintered body with good moldability.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention belongs to the technical field of sintered bodies, and relates to sintered bodies mainly made from the ashes of human remains, pet animals, etc. [Background technology]

[0002] When a person or pet passes away, they may leave behind various items related to them. Among these items, the most important are likely to be their remains. Traditionally, when the remains of a deceased person or pet animal (hereinafter referred to as "the deceased") are to be kept, they have usually been interred only in a grave or in a ossuary at a religious facility. However, in recent years, some of the cremated remains have been used as raw materials to create items intended to make the deceased feel closer to the person. This is a type of memorial service known as "temokuyo." One of the items used for such memorial services is a molded product (such as an ornament or an objet d'art) made of glass or resin with granular or powdered ashes mixed in. However, when decorativeness or formability are emphasized in such molded products, the amount of ashes mixed in is usually reduced.

[0003] Meanwhile, Patent Document 1 discloses a glassy substance containing a relatively large amount of cremated remains (20% to 80% by weight) and also containing a glass transition temperature lowering agent and a specified amount of silicon oxide. According to this document, the glassy substance can be molded into any desired shape, just like regular glass, and can be processed into artificial stone, objects, etc. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-136390 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The glassy substance described in Patent Document 1 is formed by heating and melting raw materials containing cremated remains and pouring them into a mold at high temperatures. Therefore, it cannot be shaped before heating. Once shaped, it is difficult to heat it at the same temperature while maintaining its shape. For example, it is difficult to bake it into other materials, such as ceramic, while maintaining its original shape. Furthermore, it will melt if cremated (usually at around 800°C to 1200°C) with the remains of other deceased relatives with whom the deceased was closely related.

[0006] The main objective of the present invention is to provide a novel sintered body that is primarily composed of cremated remains, can be molded at room temperature before firing, and will not melt even when heated again after firing, maintaining a constant shape. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] After extensive research, the inventor discovered that the above problem could be solved by firing a molded product made of a plastic composition containing cremated remains and a flux to form a sintered body, and thus completed the present invention.

[0008] The present invention can include, for example, the following. [1] A sintered body that is mainly composed of cremated remains ashes and further contains a flux, and that does not become molten at a temperature of 1200°C. [2] The sintered body according to [1] above, wherein the flux is ZnO, MgO, or MgCO3. [3] The sintered body according to [1] or [2] above, further comprising clay or silicate. [4] The sintered body according to [3] above, wherein the clay or silicate is kaolin or ZrSiO4. [5] The sintered body according to any one of [1] to [4] above, wherein the content of cremated remains is within the range of 70% to 98% by weight. [6] The sintered body according to any one of the above [1] to [5], wherein the content of the flux is within the range of 2% by weight to 15% by weight, and the content of the clay or silicate is 25% by weight or less. [7] A sintered body obtained by applying an underglaze or glaze to the sintered body according to any one of the above [1] to [6] and then firing it again. [8] A sintered body obtained by applying overglaze decoration to the sintered body described in [7] above and then firing it again.

[0009] [9] A plastic composition containing cremated remains and a flux, which is used as a raw material for the sintered body described in any one of [1] to [8] above.

[10] The plastic composition according to [9] above, wherein the flux is ZnO, MgO, or MgCO3.

[11] The plastic composition according to [9] or

[10] above, further comprising a molding aid.

[12] The plastic composition according to

[11] above, wherein the molding aid is a clay or silicate, an organic binder, or both.

[13] The plastic composition according to

[12] above, wherein the clay or silicate is kaolin or ZrSiO4, and the organic binder is bread crumb or wheat flour.

[0010]

[14] A method for producing the sintered body according to any one of the above [1] to [6], comprising the following steps 1 to 3: 1. A process for obtaining the plastic composition according to any one of the above [9] to

[13] by mixing a raw material containing ashes and a flux or a flux and a molding aid; 2. A step of molding the plastic composition to obtain a molded product; 3. A step of obtaining the sintered body according to any one of the above [1] to [6] by firing the molded product.

[15] A method for producing the sintered body according to the above [7], which further comprises the following four steps in addition to the steps according to the above

[14] : 4. A process of applying underglaze or glazing to the sintered body obtained in step 3 described in

[14] above, and then firing it again to obtain the sintered body described in [7] above.

[16] A method for producing the sintered body according to the above [8], which further comprises the following five steps in addition to the steps according to the above

[15] : 5. A process of applying overglaze decoration to the sintered body obtained in step 4 described in

[15] above and then firing it again to obtain the sintered body described in [8] above. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, a plastic composition containing a relatively large amount of cremated remains can be molded into any shape at room temperature, and by firing the molded product, a sintered body consisting mainly of cremated remains can be obtained. Furthermore, since the sintered body of the present invention does not lose its shape even when refired, it can be fired together with existing ceramics and baked into the ceramics in its original shape. Furthermore, the shape can be maintained even when cremated together with the remains of other deceased persons. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a diagram (photograph) showing a sintered body according to the present invention (Example 2). [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram (photograph) showing a sintered body (Example 2) according to the present invention after reheating. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram (photograph) showing a sintered body according to the present invention (Example 4). [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram (photograph) showing a sintered body (Example 4) according to the present invention after reheating. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a diagram (photograph) showing a sintered body according to the present invention (Example 6). DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The present invention will be described in detail below. 1. Sintered body according to the present invention The sintered body according to the present invention (hereinafter referred to as "the sintered body of the present invention") is a sintered body that is mainly composed of cremated remains ashes and further contains a flux, and is characterized in that it does not become molten at a temperature of 1200°C. The sintered body of the present invention may further contain clay or silicate. It may also contain other components as long as they do not impair the effects of the present invention.

[0014] Here, "cremated ashes" refers to the remains or ashes of a human or pet animal after cremation, or bone ash obtained from them. It is primarily composed of bone or bone-derived components (e.g., calcium phosphate), but does not exclude the inclusion of other components besides bone.

[0015] "Consisting mainly of" means that other components may be contained to the extent that the effects of the present invention are not impaired, and does not limit the content of the components, but typically means that the content of the component relative to the total amount of the sintered body of the present invention is 50% by weight or more. Preferably, the content is 70% by weight or more, and more preferably 80% by weight or more to 90% by weight or more. The content may be 99% by weight or more.

[0016] The sintered body of the present invention is mainly composed of cremated remains, and the content is preferably in the range of 70% to 98% by weight, more preferably in the range of 81% to 96% by weight, and even more preferably in the range of 90% to 94% by weight.

[0017] 1.1 Flux The sintered body of the present invention contains a flux. There are no particular limitations on the flux as long as it is one that is commonly used in ceramic materials. Specific examples of fluxes include potash (KO), potassium carbonate (KCO), soda (NaO), sodium carbonate (NaCO), boron oxide (BO), borax (NaBO), boric acid (NaBO), lead oxide (PbO), lead carbonate (PbCO), minium (PbO), galena (PbS), magnesia (MgO), magnesite (MgCO), barium oxide (BaO), barium carbonate (BaCO), zinc oxide (ZnO), tin oxide (SnO), and strontium (SrO). Among these, ZnO, MgO, MgCO, BaO, and BaCO are preferred, with MgO and MgCO being more preferred. These fluxes may be used alone or in combination.

[0018] The content of the flux in the sintered body of the present invention is not particularly limited, but is suitably in the range of 2 to 15% by weight, preferably in the range of 3 to 12.5% ​​by weight, more preferably in the range of 4 to 10% by weight, and most preferably in the range of 5.5 to 7.5% by weight. If the flux content is less than 2% by weight, the ashes may be easily crushed or pulverized by hand, or may not sinter into a coherent shape. If the flux content is more than 23% by weight, the sintered body may melt at temperatures below 1200°C.

[0019] 1.2 Clays or silicates The sintered body of the present invention, in one embodiment, contains clay or silicate. The clay is a mineral whose main component is aluminium silicate hydrate (Al2O3·mSiO2·nH2O) and is not particularly limited as long as it is a material commonly used as a plastic raw material for ceramics. The silicate is a mineral whose main component is a salt composed of silicon dioxide and metal oxides and is not particularly limited as long as it is a material commonly used as a raw material for ceramics. Specific examples include kaolin, New Zealand kaolin, frog's eye clay, kibushi clay, stoneware clay, bentonite, pottery stone, and ZrSiO4. Among these, kaolin, New Zealand kaolin, pottery stone, and ZrSiO4 are preferred, and kaolin and ZrSiO4 are more preferred. These clays or silicates may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0020] The clay or silicate may contain a coloring matter such as a pigment, such as a praseodymium (Pr)-based, vanadium (V)-based, chromium (Cr)-based, or iron (Fe)-based pigment.

[0021] Although there are no particular limitations on the content of clay or silicate in the sintered body of the present invention, the content of clay and silicate is suitably 25% by weight or less of the entire sintered body of the present invention, preferably in the range of 5% by weight to 20% by weight, and more preferably in the range of 10% by weight to 18% by weight.

[0022] 1.3 Additives The plastic composition of the present invention may contain additives within the range that does not impair the effects of the present invention. Examples of additives that can be used include coloring glaze raw materials, calcareous raw materials, wood ashes, feldspars, pyrophyllite, silica stone, alumina, etc.

[0023] 1.4 Temperature characteristics The sintered body of the present invention is characterized by not entering a molten state at a temperature of 1200° C., but it can also be made not to enter a molten state at 1300° C., and furthermore, it can be made not to enter a molten state at 1400° C. This can be achieved, for example, by ensuring that the sintered body of the present invention does not contain more than a certain amount of components that melt within the temperature range (components that can serve as solvents or dispersion media). For example, the sintered body of the present invention may contain silica (SiO2). However, if the SiO2 content in the sintered body is greater than 5 wt. %, the content of a specified flux is greater than 10 wt. Furthermore, if the total content of SiO2 and the specified flux is greater than 22 wt. %, the sintered body may become a glass-like substance that melts at temperatures below 1400°C. Examples of the specified flux include oxides, hydroxides, or carbonates containing lithium (Li), calcium (Ca), sodium (Na), potassium (K), or boron (B). The sintered body of the present invention may also be completely free of silica components. Furthermore, for example, the sintered body of the present invention may contain a glaze, but if the content of medium-fired glaze or low-fired glaze contained in the sintered body is more than 20% by weight, there is a risk of it melting in a temperature range of 1400°C or less.

[0024] 1.5 Re-firing The sintered body of the present invention can be one that has been subjected to underglaze painting, glazing, or both, and then fired again. The refired sintered body can also be one that has been overglaze painted and then fired again. Hereinafter, the sintered body obtained by these refired processes will be referred to as the "sintered body of the present invention."

[0025] The glazes that can be used in the above-mentioned glazing, underglazing, and overglazing are not particularly limited as long as they contain alkali metal oxides (RO) or alkaline earth metal oxides (RO), silica (SiO) or boron oxide (BO), and alumina (AlO) as their main components. Among these, for example, medium-fire glazes and low-fire glazes are suitable. Specifically, commercially available glazes or transparent glazes, such as No. 1 glaze, No. 1 Otsu glaze, No. 3 glaze, No. 4 glaze, Special No. 4 glaze, No. 9 glaze, and earthen ash glaze, are listed. Of these, No. 3 glaze, No. 9 glaze, and earthen ash glaze are preferred, and No. 3 glaze and earthen ash glaze are more preferred. These glazes or transparent glazes may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0026] There are no particular restrictions on the coloring glaze materials that can be used in the above-mentioned glazing, underglazing, or overglazing. Specific examples include iron oxide (FeO, Fe2O3), cobalt oxide (CoO, Co2O3, Co3O4), copper oxide (CuO), manganese dioxide (MnO2), manganese carbonate (MnCO3), chromium oxide (CrO, Cr2O3, CrO2, CrO3), lead chromate (PbCrO4), titanium oxide (TiO2), and gosu. Praseodymium (Pr)-based and vanadium (V)-based pigments may also be used.

[0027] 2. Plastic composition according to the present invention The plastic composition of the present invention (hereinafter referred to as "the plastic composition of the present invention") is a plastic composition containing cremated remains and a flux, and is characterized by being used as a raw material for the sintered body of the present invention. The plastic composition of the present invention may further contain a molding aid. It may also contain other components as long as the effects of the present invention are not impaired. For example, the sintered body of the present invention can be obtained by firing a molded product made of the plastic composition of the present invention.

[0028] 2.1 Flux The plastic composition of the present invention contains a flux, and there are no particular limitations on the flux as long as it is one that is commonly used in porcelain. Specific examples of fluxes include potash (KO), potassium carbonate (KCO), soda (NaO), sodium carbonate (NaCO), boron oxide (BO), borax (NaBO), boric acid (NaBO), lead oxide (PbO), lead carbonate (PbCO), minium (PbO), galena (PbS), magnesia (MgO), magnesite (MgCO), barium oxide (BaO), barium carbonate (BaCO), zinc oxide (ZnO), tin oxide (SnO), and strontium (SrO). Among these, ZnO, MgO, MgCO, BaO, and BaCO are preferred, with MgO and MgCO being more preferred. These fluxes may be used alone or in combination.

[0029] There are no particular restrictions on the amount of flux in the plastic composition of the present invention, but the weight ratio of cremated remains to flux in the plastic composition of the present invention should be within the range of 1:0.03 to 1:0.14 (ashes:flux), preferably 1:0.04 to 1:0.11 (ashes:flux), and more preferably 1:0.06 to 1:0.08 (ashes:flux). If the flux content is less than 1:0.03 (ashes:flux) by weight, the ashes may easily break down or turn into powder when fired, or may not sinter into a coherent shape. If the flux content is more than 1:0.14 (ashes:flux), the ashes may adhere to surrounding objects during firing. If the flux content is more than 1:0.3 (ashes:flux), the ashes may melt at temperatures below 1200°C.

[0030] 2.2 Molding aids In one embodiment, the plastic composition of the present invention may contain a molding aid. By including a molding aid, the plasticity of the plastic composition of the present invention can be increased, and its moldability can be improved. Examples of such molding aids include clay or silicate, organic binders, etc. These molding aids may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0031] 2.2.1 Clays or silicates The clay used as the molding aid is not particularly limited as long as it is a mineral whose main component is aluminium silicate hydrate (Al2O3·mSiO2·nH2O) and is commonly used as a plastic raw material for ceramics. The silicate is not particularly limited as long as it is a mineral whose main component is a salt consisting of silicon dioxide and metal oxides and is commonly used as a raw material for ceramics. Examples of such clays or silicates include kaolin, New Zealand kaolin, frog's eye clay, kibushi clay, stoneware clay, bentonite, pottery stone, and ZrSiO4. Among these, kaolin, New Zealand kaolin, pottery stone, and ZrSiO4 are preferred, and kaolin and ZrSiO4 are more preferred. These clays or silicates may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0032] Although there are no particular restrictions on the amount of clay or silicate contained in the plastic composition of the present invention, it is appropriate for the weight ratio of clay or silicate to cremated remains in the plastic composition of the present invention to be 1:0.3 or less (cremated remains:clay and silicate), preferably in the range of 1:0.05 to 1:0.275 (cremated remains:clay and silicate), and more preferably in the range of 1:0.1 to 1:0.25 (cremated remains:clay and silicate).

[0033] The weight ratio of the three components (ashes, clay or silicate, and flux) should be between 1:0.01:0.025 and 1:0.2:0.3 (ashes:fluxing agent:clay and silicate), preferably between 1:0.03:0.05 and 1:0.15:0.275 (ashes:fluxing agent:clay and silicate), and more preferably between 1:0.05:0.1 and 1:0.125:0.25 (ashes:fluxing agent:clay and silicate).

[0034] The clay or silicate may contain a coloring matter such as a pigment, and examples of the pigment include praseodymium (Pr)-based, vanadium (V)-based, chromium (Cr)-based, and iron (Fe)-based pigments.

[0035] 2.2.2 Organic binders The organic binder is not particularly limited as long as it imparts viscosity to the plastic composition of the present invention, improving its moldability, and is burned off at a temperature of 1200°C or higher. The moldability of the plastic composition of the present invention is improved by including an organic binder. Corrections after molding can also be easily made using simple tools, such as a brush or paintbrush soaked in a solvent such as water. Furthermore, the organic binder is burned away during the process of firing a molded product made of the plastic composition of the present invention to obtain a sintered body, and the occupied parts become voids, so the sintered body of the present invention obtained after firing can be a low-density porous sintered body.

[0036] Examples of such organic binders include hydrophilic colloid bases and binders for molding metal powders. Examples of hydrophilic colloid bases include bread crumbs, wheat flour, rice flour, potato starch, kudzu starch, bracken flour, cassava flour (tapioca flour), starch, agar, pectin, hyaluronic acid, alginic acid or its salts, glucosamine, soybean polysaccharides, gelatin, collagen, whey, albumin, egg white protein, soybean protein, casein, other thickening polysaccharides or gelling proteins, polyethylene glycol, and polyvinyl alcohol. Examples of binders for metal powder molding include cellulose-based organic binders, polyvinyl-based organic binders, acrylic-based organic binders, wax-based organic binders, and resin-based organic binders. Among these, hydrophilic colloid bases are preferred, and thickening polysaccharides such as breadcrumbs and wheat flour or gelling proteins are more preferred. The organic binders may be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0037] Although there is no particular limitation on the content of the organic binder in the plastic composition of the present invention, it is appropriate that the weight ratio of the organic binder to the solid components other than the organic binder in the plastic composition of the present invention is 1:0.4 or less (solid components other than the organic binder:organic binder).Of these, a range of 1:0.025 to 1:0.3 (solid components other than the organic binder:organic binder) is preferred, and a range of 1:0.05 to 1:0.2 (solid components other than the organic binder:organic binder) is more preferred.

[0038] 2.3 Water The plastic composition of the present invention suitably contains water. There are no particular limitations on the type of water, and examples include purified water, distilled water, mineral spring water, and tap water. Mineral-containing water is also acceptable, and the water quality may be hard water or soft water. By including an appropriate amount of water, the plastic composition of the present invention acquires plasticity and becomes moldable at room temperature. The plastic composition of the present invention may also be in the form of a slurry suitable for slip casting. In addition, in the case where the plastic composition of the present invention contains an organic binder, the plastic composition of the present invention may contain a solvent other than water that has affinity with the organic binder.

[0039] 2.4 Additives The plastic composition of the present invention may contain additives within the range that does not impair the effects of the present invention. Examples of additives that can be used include coloring glaze raw materials, calcareous raw materials, wood ashes, feldspars, pyrophyllite, silica stone, alumina, etc.

[0040] 3. Manufacturing method of sintered body according to the present invention The method for producing a sintered body according to the present invention (hereinafter referred to as the "production method of the present invention") is characterized by comprising: (1) a step (mixing step) of obtaining the plastic composition of the present invention by mixing cremated remains with raw materials containing a flux or a flux and a molding aid; (2) a step (molding step) of obtaining a molded product by molding the obtained plastic composition of the present invention; and (3) a step (sintering step) of obtaining the sintered body of the present invention by firing the obtained molded product. The manufacturing method of the present invention may further include a step (4) of applying an underglaze or glazing to the sintered body of the present invention obtained in the step (3) above, and then firing the same again to obtain a sintered body of the present invention in a so-called final-fired or glaze-fired state (re-firing step). The manufacturing method of the present invention may further include a step (5) of overglazing the sintered body of the present invention obtained in the re-firing step (4) above, followed by another firing process, thereby obtaining a sintered body of the present invention in a so-called overglaze-fired state (overglaze step).

[0041] 3.1 Mixing process In producing the sintered body of the present invention, a raw material containing cremated ashes and a flux or a flux and a molding aid is mixed. Here, the cremated ashes, flux, and molding aid have the same meanings as above. The raw material can also contain other ingredients as long as they do not impair the effects of the present invention. The ashes are preferably in powder form. There are no particular restrictions on the pulverization method, but they can be pulverized using a grinder or mill, or they can be roughly crushed first and then crushed in a ball mill or pot mill. The pulverization can be done in a dry state (dry method), or wet by adding water or other materials. The particle size should be 80 mesh or larger. Furthermore, from the perspective of uniform mixing of the ashes and the flux, 100 mesh or larger is preferable, and 120 mesh or larger is even more preferable.

[0042] The flux is preferably added in an amount such that the weight ratio of ashes to flux in the plastic composition of the present invention is within the range of 1:0.03 to 1:0.14 (ashes:flux), preferably 1:0.04 to 1:0.11 (ashes:flux), and more preferably 1:0.06 to 1:0.08 (ashes:flux). If the ratio of flux is less than 1:0.01 (ashes:flux), the ashes may easily break down or turn into powder with the force of your fingers, or they may not sinter into a coherent shape. If the ratio is more than 1:0.14 (ashes:flux), the ashes may stick to surrounding objects during firing. And if the ratio is more than 1:0.3 (ashes:flux), they may melt during the subsequent firing process.

[0043] When clay or silicate is used as a molding aid, the clay or silicate should be blended in such an amount that the weight ratio of clay and silicate to cremated remains in the plastic composition of the present invention is 1:0.3 or less (cremated remains:clay and silicate), preferably in the range of 1:0.05 to 1:0.275 (cremated remains:clay and silicate), and more preferably in the range of 1:0.1 to 1:0.25 (cremated remains:clay and silicate).

[0044] The weight ratio of the three components (ashes, flux, and clay or silicate) should be between 1:0.01:0.025 and 1:0.2:0.3 (ashes: flux: clay and silicate), preferably between 1:0.03:0.05 and 1:0.15:0.275 (ashes: flux: clay and silicate), and more preferably between 1:0.05:0.1 and 1:0.125:0.25 (ashes: flux: clay and silicate).

[0045] The clay or silicate may contain a coloring matter such as a pigment, and examples of the pigment include praseodymium (Pr)-based, vanadium (V)-based, chromium (Cr)-based, and iron (Fe)-based pigments.

[0046] When an organic binder is used as a molding aid, the organic binder is suitably blended in such an amount that the weight ratio of the organic binder to the solid components other than the organic binder in the plastic composition of the present invention is 1:0.4 or less (solid components other than the organic binder:organic binder).Among these, a range of 1:0.025 to 1:0.3 (solid components other than the organic binder:organic binder) is preferred, and a range of 1:0.05 to 1:0.2 (solid components other than the organic binder:organic binder) is more preferred.

[0047] Clay or silicate may be used as a molding aid in combination with an organic binder.

[0048] There are no particular limitations on the method for mixing the ashes and other ingredients; it can be the same as mixing ordinary ceramic materials. For example, the ingredients can be mixed in a dry state, or the ingredients can be mixed, water added, and stirred. There are no limitations on the container used for mixing or stirring, but examples include a mortar and a pot mill. Since the components do not react at room temperature, it is essentially the same whether the components other than the cremated remains are mixed first and then the cremated remains are mixed, or whether the components and the cremated remains are mixed at the same time, and the order in which they are mixed does not matter.

[0049] In this step, it is appropriate to add water to the above components to form a mixture. There are no particular limitations on the water to be mixed, and for example, purified water, distilled water, mineral spring water, or tap water can be used. Water containing minerals may be used, and the water quality may be hard water or soft water. The amount of water added should be an appropriate amount so that the mixture can be molded into a plastic composition. Alternatively, an amount of water may be added that allows for slip casting in the subsequent molding step. When an organic binder is added as a molding aid, a solvent having affinity with the organic binder may be added to the mixture.

[0050] 3.2 Molding process The sintered body of the present invention can be produced by molding the plastic composition obtained in the above mixing step into a molded product, and then subjecting it to a firing step. There are no particular limitations on the molding method, and various molding methods can be used as appropriate, such as hand-twisting molding, potter's wheel molding, Tatara molding, stamping molding, press molding, and slip molding. When molding, tools suitable for molding, such as a trowel, oyster spatula, boxwood spatula, or sword point, can be used as appropriate. Molding can also be done using a 3D printer.

[0051] In particular, when the plastic composition to be molded contains an organic binder as a molding aid, the shape of the dried molded product can be easily modified by using a simple tool such as a brush containing water or another solvent that has affinity with the organic binder. From the viewpoint of moldability and shape modification, it is preferable to use the above-mentioned hydrophilic colloid base as the organic binder, and among them, it is more preferable to use a thickening polysaccharide such as breadcrumbs or wheat flour or a gelling protein.

[0052] 3.3 Firing process The molded product obtained through the above molding process is loaded into a kiln and fired. For example, if the molded product contains water, it is dried or otherwise made into a state suitable for firing before being loaded into a kiln. When loading into a kiln, it is preferable to lay an anti-adhesion agent under the molded product. Examples of such anti-adhesion agents that can be used include alumina powder, lime, shells, and stone (such as silica sand). Only one type of anti-adhesion agent may be used, or two or more types may be used in combination, such as a combination of alumina and silica sand. Examples of kilns that can be used for firing include electric kilns, kerosene kilns, gas kilns, and wood-fired kilns (climbing kilns, tunnel kilns, etc.). From the viewpoint of temperature control, electric kilns are preferred. The firing atmosphere is not particularly limited and may be appropriately selected in accordance with common technical knowledge. Any of oxidation firing (OF), reduction firing (RF), and carbonization firing may be used.

[0053] The firing temperature is suitably within the range of, for example, 1100°C to 1400°C. Of these, 1200°C to 1300°C is preferred, and a range of 1225°C to 1265°C is even more preferred. Furthermore, when expressed in Segel cone (SK), the firing conditions are preferably within the range of SK5a to SK13. Of these, a range of SK6a to SK9 is more preferred, and a range of SK7 to SK8 is most preferred.

[0054] There is no particular limitation on the firing time, but firing can be carried out for a period of approximately 6 to 24 hours, and typically firing can be carried out for approximately 10 to 12 hours.

[0055] 3.4 Re-firing process The sintered body of the present invention may further be subjected to underglaze painting, glazing, or both. After underglaze painting or glazing, the sintered body may be dried and fired as necessary. There are no particular restrictions on the firing method, and any known firing method commonly used for final firing or glaze firing may be used. There are also no particular restrictions on the kiln, firing atmosphere, firing temperature, etc. that can be used, and the preferred conditions are the same as those for the above firing process.

[0056] 3.5 Overglaze process The sintered body of the present invention can be further overglaze painted. Overglaze painting is performed by painting the surface of the sintered body after firing. Because firing is performed at a low temperature of about 700 to 850°C, it is possible to produce a wide variety of colors that cannot be produced by colored glazes fired at higher temperatures. In addition, the surface of the sintered body of the present invention can be further painted using a printer or engraved using a laser marker before or after firing.

[0057] The motifs used for the underglaze or overglaze painting, or for the painted or engraved designs after the overglaze firing, can be things that the deceased liked, enjoyed, or made up their life's work, or the appearance of a beloved pet that has passed away, or things that symbolize the deceased. [Example]

[0058] The present invention will be described below with reference to examples, but the present invention is not limited to these examples in any way.

[0059] The raw materials used are as follows: Korean kaolin Magnesite: MgCO3 Zircon: ZrSiO4 Wheat flour: Nisshin Flour Milling Company's soft flour Dry alumina hydroxide powder In addition, bone ash used for pottery was used as a substitute for crematorium ash.

[0060] [Examples 1 and 2] The plastic composition of the present invention and the sintered body of the present invention were produced by the following procedure. First, 2 g of cremated remains, 0.14 g of magnesite, and 0.2 g of wheat flour were mixed in a mortar. An appropriate amount of water was added to the resulting mixture to obtain a plastic composition (plastic composition of the present invention, Example 1). The resulting plastic composition was molded into a cherry blossom-shaped object.

[0061] The resulting molded product was dried at room temperature for 12 hours and then loaded into an electric kiln (YH-13 ceramics electric furnace manufactured by Yaesu Giken Co., Ltd.). When loading, an appropriate amount of alumina powder was placed under the molded product. The firing process was carried out for 12 hours in an oxidizing atmosphere at a set temperature of 1230°C. After firing, the product was allowed to cool in the kiln for more than 12 hours to obtain a cherry blossom-shaped sintered product (sintered product of the present invention, Example 2). The resulting sintered product of the present invention (Example 2) is shown in Figure 1.

[0062] The obtained sintered body of the present invention maintained its shape even after being reheated for 12 hours at 1340° C. The sintered body of the present invention after being reheated is shown in FIG.

[0063] As shown in Figure 1, the sintered body of the present invention contains 93.5% by weight of cremated remains, yet is sintered with good moldability. It is a robust sintered body that is not easily crushed by hand. Figures 1 and 2 also show that the sintered body of the present invention maintains its shape even after reheating.

[0064] [Examples 3 and 4] The plastic composition of the present invention and the sintered body of the present invention were produced by the following procedure. First, 2 g of cremated remains, 0.2 g of magnesite, 0.26 g of kaolin, and 0.25 g of wheat flour were mixed in a mortar. An appropriate amount of water was added to the resulting mixture to obtain a plastic composition (plastic composition of the present invention, Example 3). The resulting plastic composition was molded into a cherry blossom-shaped object.

[0065] The resulting molded product was dried at room temperature for 12 hours, then loaded into an electric kiln (YH-13 ceramics electric furnace manufactured by Yaesu Giken Co., Ltd.) and fired at a set temperature of 1230°C for 12 hours. After firing, the product was allowed to cool in the kiln for more than 12 hours to obtain a cherry blossom-shaped sintered body (sintered body of the present invention, Example 4). The obtained sintered body of the present invention (Example 4) is shown in Figure 3.

[0066] The obtained sintered body of the present invention was reheated for 12 hours at 1340° C. The sintered body of the present invention after reheating is shown in FIG.

[0067] As shown in Figure 3, the sintered body of the present invention contains 81.3% by weight of cremated remains, yet is sintered with good moldability. It is a robust sintered body that is not easily crushed by hand. Figures 3 and 4 also show that the sintered body of the present invention maintains its shape even after reheating.

[0068] [Examples 5 and 6] The plastic composition of the present invention and the sintered body of the present invention were produced by the following procedure. First, 2 g of cremated remains, 0.16 g of magnesite, 0.05 g of zircon, and 0.3 g of wheat flour were mixed in a mortar. An appropriate amount of water was added to the resulting mixture to obtain a plastic composition (plastic composition of the present invention, Example 5). The resulting plastic composition was molded into a cherry blossom-shaped object.

[0069] The resulting molded product was dried at room temperature for 12 hours, then loaded into an electric kiln (YH-13 ceramics electric furnace manufactured by Yaesu Giken Co., Ltd.) and fired at a set temperature of 1230°C for 12 hours. After firing, the product was allowed to cool in the kiln for at least 12 hours to obtain a cherry blossom-shaped sintered body (sintered body of the present invention, Example 6). The resulting sintered body of the present invention (Example 6) is shown in Figure 5.

[0070] As shown in Figure 5, the sintered body of the present invention (Example 6) contains 90.5% by weight of cremated remains, yet is sintered with good moldability. It is a robust sintered body that is not easily crushed by hand. Furthermore, like Examples 2 and 4, the sintered body of the present invention (Example 6) maintained its shape even after reheating. [Industrial Applicability]

[0071] The sintered body of the present invention can be fired into any shape while containing a large amount of cremated ashes, and the molding can be performed at room temperature before firing. Furthermore, once fired, the sintered body of the present invention does not lose its shape even when reheated. Therefore, the present invention is useful, for example, in the funeral industry.

Claims

1. A plastic composition comprising cremated remains, a flux, and an organic binder as a molding aid, It is used as a raw material for a sintered body having an SiO 2 content of 5% by weight or less, and A plastic composition characterized in that the weight ratio of the cremated remains to the flux is within the range of 1:0.03 to 1:0.3 (cremated remains:flux).

2. Furthermore, ZrSiO ４ The plastic composition of claim 1 comprising:

3. 3. The plastic composition of claim 1, wherein the organic binder is a hydrophilic colloid-based material.

4. 4. The plastic composition of claim 3, wherein the hydrophilic colloid base is a thickening polysaccharide, a gelling protein, or a mixture containing both.

5. 5. The plastic composition of claim 4, wherein the mixture is breadcrumb or flour.

6. 6. The plastic composition according to claim 1, wherein the cremated remains and the flux are contained in a weight ratio of 1:0.03 to 1:0.14 (cremated remains:flux).

7. The plastic composition according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the content of the organic binder relative to the solid components other than the organic binder is 1:0.4 or less (solid components other than the organic binder:organic binder) in terms of weight ratio.

8. The plastic composition according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the content of the ashes is in the range of 70% by weight to 98% by weight of the solid components other than the organic binder.

9. A method for producing a sintered body, comprising the following steps 1 to 3: (However, in the sintered body, the SiO 2 content is more than 5 wt %, The content of an oxide, hydroxide, or carbonate containing any of Li, Ca, Na, K, and B as a flux is more than 10% by weight, and Except when the total content of SiO 2 and said oxides, hydroxides or carbonates is more than 22% by weight:

1. By mixing raw materials including ashes, a flux, and a molding aid, a step of obtaining a plastic composition comprising cremated remains, a flux, and an organic binder as a molding aid, wherein the weight ratio of the cremated remains to the flux is within the range of 1:0.03 to 1:0.3 (cremated remains:flux); 2. A step of molding the plastic composition to obtain a molded product; 3. A step of firing the molded product to obtain a sintered body.

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