TAGS: #taiwan
The materials used in the making of teapots have evolved and expanded through the years. Let's take a look at a few of the current materials and trends.
Many suppliers in Taiwan and mainland China are utilizing special materials to enhance the quality of their teapots and sets. One such company has launched teapots and sets which rims are fitted with cool touch and anti-slip seaweed straw.
In order to improve the heat retention performance of many designs, makers are using purple clay that emits far infrared rays and crystal glass with a high sodium content. Both materials help in retaining warmth. Many companies in the mainland are producing double walled vessels in order to retain heat even longer.
In Taiwan, many of the latest teapot models come in materials that help maximize tea flavor and seal in the aroma. These materials include ceramic powder infused with andesite minerals, which help stimulate and allow the active carbon in the tea leaves to blend well with water.
Teapot designs from both Taiwan and China feature improved durability as well. Most teapots and sets for the high end market now come in polyester based bone china porcelain. Compared with natural hard paste porcelain, the new material does not become brittle with age and can be passed along for generations.
Other vessels have bodies in borosilicate glass with 5 percent boric oxide. These materials strengthen the structure of teapots and renders them resilient to quite drastic temperature changes. In addition, some vessels are covered with German made glazes. The imported finish is highly colorfast and high tolerance when exposed to extreme heat.
New models with such a makeup can withstand an abrupt increase in temperature of 150 C. Adding value, the supplier's borosilicate glass designs have a very clear finish and resist condensation.
Manufacturers in Taiwan and China are combining materials to give their teapots greater visual appeal. The lids of teapots, creamers and sugar bowls, as well as saucers, cups and warmers, are usually made of bone china porcelain in a bright ivory and utilize different design patterns.
Carafes and pitchers come in borosilicate glass or glazed stoneware. Companies then utilize hardwood, bamboo or stainless steel for the handles, trays and tweezers.
For the sieves of carafes, companies are employing stainless steel. The stainless steel allows them to punch 150 holes. As a result, the tea is more thoroughly cleaned of dust and unwanted stalks. Strainers made of ceramic or porcelain can only up to 30 filter gaps.