素材
copper foil
Japanese: 銅箔
Thin copper used for decoration and in chemical reactions. It reacts with sulfur- and selenium-based compounds.
Learn More
Copper foil is a thin sheet of copper used in glass fusing for decorative purposes, to create reaction effects, and to provide electrical conductivity. When sealed between layers of glass as a foil inclusion and fired, the oxidation and reduction states of the copper cause a variety of color changes, such as green, red, and black. In stained glass techniques, copper foil tape is used as a soldering base to secure the glass.
When encapsulating copper foil in glass fusing, designs should account for the fact that the copper will oxidize and discolor. The final result varies significantly depending on the firing atmosphere (oxidizing or reducing), the composition of the surrounding glass, and the firing temperature. To achieve the desired color, it is essential to conduct test firings beforehand. Additionally, embedding large pieces of copper foil carries the risk of air bubbles forming due to gas generation during firing; therefore, either use smaller pieces or ensure a sufficient burn-off period is included in the process.
Related Concepts
By comparing silver foil, foil inclusion, silver reaction, and ionization tendency, you can understand the reactive properties of metal foils.
This entry is written in Japanese by Rei Chikaoka and translated for readers outside Japan. If something reads oddly, the original is the source of truth.