Vanadium

[Shine Chisholm]

I want to try a 72 Base variation that calls for Vanadium. Unfortunately, it isn't clear whether that means pentoxide, oxide-- or even just a mason stain. Recipe on The University of Montana blog

I haven't commented on the post because no one has touched the blog in well over a year. Do you have any thoughts?

[Steve Tyler]

I'm in no way an expert so i want no blame when ya blow up your house.  But i was having the same sort of questions the other day with tungsten and i found out two things.  First often the term 'oxide' is just used shorthand for the pentoxide and secondly the tungsten's varieties i was looking at (some were a lot cheaper than others) all were thought by the people i was speaking with to break down to a workable oxide in the kiln.  If the supply house is selling it then it must do something, try it . but don't blame me about the house!

[George Lewter]

Vanadium pentoxide is the only listed source of vanadium on the digitalfire/4sight/materials database.

Vanadium Pentoxide
Formula: V2O5

Oxide Analysis Formula
V2O5 100.00% 1.00

DENS - Density (Specific Gravity) 3.40
MLPT - Melting Point (MP) 690C M
A coloring agent that produces yellows, especially when in combination with tin oxide. It is also a strong flux.

Ceramicartsdaily says, "V2O5—weak yellow colorant—toxic, expensive—usually fritted with tin to produce stronger yellow. Highly toxic in inhalation and ingestion."

I would go with the mason stain as a precaution against the toxicity. You might need to use more than 5%.

[Shine Chisholm]

you always have fantastic answers. thank you.

and yes, pentoxide is *very* expensive.

[Shine Chisholm]

my supplier is able to get both oxide and pentoxide. at least she said she could. I ended up getting the mason stain... I haven't mixed it up yet. I like to be sure I'm using the right ingredients before I mix them!