Conductive Ceramics: Embedding Electronics in Everyday Ceramic Objects

Abstract

We present a method for integrating conductive traces into ceramic objects using a silver-based glaze compatible with traditional firing processes. Our glaze combines silver powder with a glass former and xanthan gum, enabling application through standard ceramic techniques while maintaining the durability of conventional ceramics. Through a material-driven experimentation approach, we characterized how glaze composition and post-processing methods affect conductivity and surface quality. We demonstrate this technique through functional prototypes including a temperature-responsive heating vessel, a touch-sensitive musical controller utilizing kintsugi repair, and an interactive marble machine. This work bridges traditional ceramic craft with interactive technology, offering ceramicists a way to incorporate electronic functionality while preserving traditional methods.