Graduation Year

2024

Document Type

Open Access Senior Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Biology

Second Department

Art

Reader 1

Pete Chandrangsu

Reader 2

Adam Davis

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© 2024 Kelly Fuller

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between microorganisms and clay using samples currently being utilized in the Lincoln Ceramics Studio at Scripps College. Clay science spans disciplines, from geology and soil science to industrial material development and artistic practices. Although biological processes have been thought to effect clay properties such as plasticity and malleability, the interplay between microorganisms and clay minerals has not been thoroughly investigated in the scientific community. Drawing from diverse disciplines, this research investigates the microbial ecology of clay bodies to unveil potential innovations in ceramics production. In this experiment, colony-forming unit (CFU) assays were performed in both processed and native samples to determine the population of microbes. All samples were found to harbor microbes, confirming clay’s function as a habitat for microorganisms. Despite efforts to uncover insights into the aging process of clay, statistical analyses between samples yielded non-significant results due to the limited number of replicates. The relationship between clay and biological processes remains elusive and further studies are necessary to determine the mechanisms involved in clay aging. As a pilot study, the experimental design and preliminary data can be used as an example for future art and science students. Clay continues to be one of the most important resources in the world, and as the field of microbiology broadens, so too will our understanding of the links between microorganisms and ceramics.

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