paper clay

plural paper clays · alternative paperclay · alternative paper-clay

1. countableuncountablebusinessSynonym of kaolin; also similarly uniform light-coloured clay composed of fine particles.

   It is a good specimen of the variety of fire-clay, which is used for facing paperhangings, and is sold as paper clay.

   1840, Henry Darwin Rogers, Description of the Geology of the State of New Jersey, New Jersey Geological Survey, p 101

   Synonyms: kaolin

2. countableuncountableceramicsClay mixed with shredded paper or other fibres, valued for its strength and light weight in the production of large ceramic works.

   [title] Paper/Clay and Method of Preparation

   1998, Rosette Gault, Paper/Clay and Method of Preparation, United States Patent no. 5,726,111, USPTO

   1 more example

   Ceramic paperclay contains a special balance of organic cellulose fibers (like those in recycled paper pulp) dispersed uniformly within a base of inorganic traditional clay.

   1993, Rosette Gault, Paper Clay for Ceramic Sculptors: A Studio Companion, Seattle: Clear Light Books, published 2010