A study on the strength and thermal shock resistance of Egyptian shale-tempered pottery

The characteristic shale-tempered pottery found in Egypt's Western Desert is often discussed for its potential strength properties and resistance to thermal shock. This paper reports on a recent experiment that tests these properties using replicate shale-tempered ceramic beams. The beams were thermally treated and flexure-tested on a three-point loading jig. The results indicate that shale in sufficient concentrations and size has an effect on vessel strength and thermal shock resistance, though the relationship is more complex than expected. Importantly, this study highlights the potential for integrating new methods of materials analysis into research on ancient Egyptian ceramics.