Laura Negus, Alyson Olson, Antony Hall, and Andrew Wilson began investigating additions to the clay body, and the effects this has on the resonance and conductivity of the material. We experimented with various ceramic techniques, shapes, and additions then pit fired test pieces, looking at the effects on the clay body, surface and conductivity.

Material scientist Dr Philip Frankel then joined and introduced us to Max phases, which exhibit both metallic and ceramic characteristics under various conditions, and how their strength and movement are captured and measured. We began looking into structural changes, and stresses that happen in the clay body throughout the drying and firing process and how these can be captured using scientific imaging techniques. Making the movement of the clay more visible we can then better predict how it will interact with various materials, and processes. Due to Coronavirus this phase has been put on hold.