Microwave sintering of cordierite ceramic precursors obtained by starch direct consolidation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sandoval, M.L.; Talou, M.H.; Camerucci, M.A.; Universidad Nacional de Mar Del Plata; Souto, P.M. de; Kiminami, R.H.G.A.

2009-01-01

Microwave sintering of cordierite disk precursors (mixture of kaolin, talc and alumina) with potato starch was studied. Green disks were obtained by thermal consolidation of stable aqueous suspensions of the ceramic powders (29.6 % vol.) with potato starch (11.5 % vol.) at 75 and 85 deg C, 4h; drying (50 deg C,12h) and calcination (650 deg C, 2h). The reaction-sintering by microwave heating (power: 2.45 GHz; heating rate: 50 deg C/min) at different temperatures (1250-1330 deg C) and dwell times (10-20 min) was carried out. For comparative purposes, the reaction-sintering by conventional heating was analyzed (1330 deg C, 4h a 3 deg C/min). The evolution of the phases as a function of temperature and time was studied by XRD analysis. The developed microstructures (dense or porous) were characterized by density and porosity measurements, and SEM. The obtained results were analyzed in relation to the characteristics of starch behavior in aqueous suspension at temperature and the employed consolidation and sintering conditions. (author)

Modeling the microstructural evolution during constrained sintering

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Bjørk, Rasmus; Frandsen, Henrik Lund; Tikare, V.

A numerical model able to simulate solid state constrained sintering of a powder compact is presented. The model couples an existing kinetic Monte Carlo (kMC) model for free sintering with a finite element (FE) method for calculating stresses on a microstructural level. The microstructural response...... to the stress field as well as the FE calculation of the stress field from the microstructural evolution is discussed. The sintering behavior of two powder compacts constrained by a rigid substrate is simulated and compared to free sintering of the same samples. Constrained sintering result in a larger number...

Microstructure, mechanical properties and superelasticity of biomedical porous NiTi alloy prepared by microwave sintering.

Science.gov (United States)

Xu, J L; Bao, L Z; Liu, A H; Jin, X J; Tong, Y X; Luo, J M; Zhong, Z C; Zheng, Y F

2015-01-01

Porous NiTi alloys were prepared by microwave sintering using ammonium hydrogen carbonate (NH4HCO3) as the space holder agent to adjust the porosity in the range of 22-62%. The effects of porosities on the microstructure, hardness, compressive strength, bending strength, elastic modulus, phase transformation temperature and superelasticity of the porous NiTi alloys were investigated. The results showed that the porosities and average pore sizes of the porous NiTi alloys increased with increasing the contents of NH4HCO3. The porous NiTi alloys consisted of nearly single NiTi phase, with a very small amount of two secondary phases (Ni3Ti, NiTi2) when the porosities are lower than 50%. The amount of Ni3Ti and NiTi2 phases increased with further increasing of the porosity proportion. The porosities had few effects on the phase transformation temperatures of the porous NiTi alloys. By increasing the porosities, all of the hardness, compressive strength, elastic modulus, bending strength and superelasticity of the porous NiTi alloys decreased. However, the compressive strength and bending strength were higher or close to those of natural bone and the elastic modulus was close to the natural bone. The superelastic recovery strain of the trained porous NiTi alloys could reach between 3.1 and 4.7% at the pre-strain of 5%, even if the porosity was up to 62%. Moreover, partial shape memory effect was observed for all porosity levels under the experiment conditions. Therefore, the microwave sintered porous NiTi alloys could be a promising candidate for bone implant. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

LOW-TEMPERATURE SINTERED (ZnMg2SiO4 MICROWAVE CERAMICS WITH TiO2 ADDITION AND CALCIUM BOROSILICATE GLASS

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BO LI

2011-03-01

Full Text Available The low-temperature sintered (ZnMg2SiO–TiO2 microwave ceramic using CaO–B2O3–SiO2 (CBS as a sintering aid has been developed. Microwave properties of (Zn1-xMgx2SiO4 base materials via sol-gel method were highly dependent on the Mg-substituted content. Further, effects of CBS and TiO2 additives on the crystal phases, microstructures and microwave characteristics of (ZnMg2SiO4 (ZMS ceramics were investigated. The results indicated that CBS glass could lower the firing temperature of ZMS dielectrics effectively from 1170 to 950°C due to the liquid-phase effect, and significantly improve the sintering behavior and microwave properties of ZMS ceramics. Moreover, ZMS–TiO2 ceramics showed the biphasic structure and the abnormal grain growth was suppressed by the pinning effect of second phase TiO2. Proper amount of TiO2 could tune the large negative temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (tf of ZMS system to a near zero value. (Zn0.8Mg0.22SiO4 codoped with 10 wt.% TiO2 and 3 wt.% CBS sintered at 950°C exhibits the dense microstructure and excellent microwave properties: εr = 9.5, Q·f = 16 600 GHz and tf = −9.6 ppm/°C.

3D Online Submicron Scale Observation of Mixed Metal Powder's Microstructure Evolution in High Temperature and Microwave Compound Fields

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Dan Kang

2014-01-01

Full Text Available In order to study the influence on the mechanical properties caused by microstructure evolution of metal powder in extreme environment, 3D real-time observation of the microstructure evolution of Al-Ti mixed powder in high temperature and microwave compound fields was realized by using synchrotron radiation computerized topography (SR-CT technique; the spatial resolution was enhanced to 0.37 μm/pixel through the designed equipment and the introduction of excellent reconstruction method for the first time. The process of microstructure evolution during sintering was clearly distinguished from 2D and 3D reconstructed images. Typical sintering parameters such as sintering neck size, porosity, and particle size of the sample were presented for quantitative analysis of the influence on the mechanical properties and the sintering kinetics during microwave sintering. The neck size-time curve was obtained and the neck growth exponent was 7.3, which indicated that surface diffusion was the main diffusion mechanism; the reason was the eddy current loss induced by the external microwave fields providing an additional driving force for mass diffusion on the particle surface. From the reconstructed images and the curve of porosity and average particle size versus temperature, it was believed that the presence of liquid phase aluminum accelerated the densification and particle growth.

Rapid immobilization of simulated radioactive soil waste by microwave sintering.

Science.gov (United States)

Zhang, Shuai; Shu, Xiaoyan; Chen, Shunzhang; Yang, Huimin; Hou, Chenxi; Mao, Xueli; Chi, Fangting; Song, Mianxin; Lu, Xirui

2017-09-05

A rapid and efficient method is particularly necessary in the timely disposal of seriously radioactive contaminated soil. In this paper, a series of simulated radioactive soil waste containing different contents of neodymium oxide (3-25wt.%) has been successfully vitrified by microwave sintering at 1300°C for 30min. The microstructures, morphology, element distribution, density and chemical durability of as obtained vitrified forms have been analyzed. The results show that the amorphous structure, homogeneous element distribution, and regular density improvement are well kept, except slight cracks emerge on the magnified surface for the 25wt.% Nd 2 O 3 -containing sample. Moreover, all the vitrified forms exhibit excellent chemical durability, and the leaching rates of Nd are kept as ∼10 -4 -10 -6 g/(m 2 day) within 42days. This demonstrates a potential application of microwave sintering in radioactive contaminated soil disposal. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

[Study on friction and wear properties of dental zirconia ceramics processed by microwave and conventional sintering methods].

Science.gov (United States)

Guoxin, Hu; Ying, Yang; Yuemei, Jiang; Wenjing, Xia

2017-04-01

This study evaluated the wear of an antagonist and friction and wear properties of dental zirconia ceramic that was subjected to microwave and conventional sintering methods. Ten specimens were fabricated from Lava brand zirconia and randomly assigned to microwave and conventional sintering groups. A profile tester for surface roughness was used to measure roughness of the specimens. Wear test was performed, and steatite ceramic was used as antagonist. Friction coefficient curves were recorded, and wear volume were calculated. Finally, optical microscope was used to observe the surface morphology of zirconia and steatite ceramics. Field emission scanning electron microscopy was used to observe the microstructure of zirconia. Wear volumes of microwave and conventionally sintered zirconia were (6.940±1.382)×10⁻², (7.952±1.815) ×10⁻² mm³, respectively. Moreover, wear volumes of antagonist after sintering by the considered methods were (14.189±4.745)×10⁻², (15.813±3.481)×10⁻² mm³, correspondingly. Statistically significant difference was not observed in the wear resistance of zirconia and wear volume of steatite ceramic upon exposure to two kinds of sintering methods. Optical microscopy showed that ploughed surfaces were apparent in zirconia. The wear surface of steatite ceramic against had craze, accompanied by plough. Scanning electron microscopy showed that zirconia was sintered compactly when subjected to both conventional sintering and microwave methods, whereas grains of zirconia sintered by microwave alone were smaller and more uniform. Two kinds of sintering methods are successfully used to produce dental zirconia ceramics with similar friction and wear properties.
.

A comparison study on the densification behavior and mechanical properties of gelcast vs conventionally formed B4C sintered conventionally and by microwaves

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Menchhofer, P.A.; Kiggans, J.O.; Morrow, M.S.; Schechter, D.E.

1996-01-01

The utilization of microwave energy for reaching high temperatures necessary to densify B 4 C powder is compared with conventional means of sintering by evaluating the mechanical properties after densification. Microwave energy has been shown to be an effective means for achieving high sintered densities, even though temperatures of ∼ 2,250 C are required. In this study, green preforms of B 4 C specimens were sintered by both conventional and microwave heating. This study also utilized an advanced forming method called ''Gelcasting'' developed at ORNL. Gelcasting is a fluid forming process whereby high solids suspensions of powders containing dissolved monomers are cast into a mold, then polymerized or ''gelled'' in situ. This investigation compares microstructures and mechanical properties of both Gelcast B 4 C and ''conventionally'' die-pressed B 4 C. The microstructures and final mechanical properties of B 4 C specimens are discussed

Techniques for ceramic sintering using microwave energy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kimrey, H.D.; Janney, M.A.; Becher, P.F.

1987-01-01

The use of microwave energy for ceramic sintering offers exciting new possibilities for materials processing. Based on experience gathered in microwave processing associated with the heating of fusion plasmas, we have developed hardware and methods for uniformly heating ceramic parts of large volume and irregular shape to temperatures in excess of 1600 0 C, in vacuum or pressurized atmosphere. Microwave processing at 28 GHz yields enhanced densification rates with a corresponding reduction in sintering temperatures. 6 refs

Frittage micro-ondes en cavité monomode de biocéramiques Microwaves sintering of bioceramics in a single mode cavity

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Savary Etienne

2013-11-01

Full Text Available Le but premier de cette étude est de montrer la faisabilité du frittage direct en cavité micro-ondes monomode de deux biomatériaux céramiques : l'hydroxyapatite et le phosphate tri-calcique. Ainsi, cette étude montre que ce procédé a permis d'obtenir, en des temps très courts, inférieurs à 20 minutes, des échantillons denses présentant des microstructures fines. Les caractérisations mécaniques sur les échantillons frittés par micro-ondes ont révélé des valeurs de module d'élasticité et de dureté supérieures à celles généralement obtenues sur des échantillons frittés de manière conventionnelle. Ces résultats sont discutés en fonction de la microstructure obtenue et des différents paramètres expérimentaux : granulométrie des poudres, température de frittage, temps d'irradiation micro-ondes. The main purpose of this study consists in investigating the direct microwaves sintering in a single mode cavity of two bioceramics: hydroxyapatite and tri-calcium phosphate. Thus, dense samples presenting fine microstructures are successfully obtained in less than 20 minutes of irradiation. The resulting mechanical characterizations on microwaves sintered samples evidence higher Young's modulus and hardness values than those usually reported on conventionally sintered samples. Those results are discussed according to the microstructures observed and the experimental parameters such as powders granulometries, sintering temperatures, microwaves irradiation times.

Microwave sintering of Ag-nanoparticle thin films on a polyimide substrate

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Fujii, S., E-mail: fujii.s.ap@m.titech.ac.jp [Department of Applied Chemistry, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo 152-8522 (Japan); Department of Information and Communication System Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Okinawa College, Nago, Okinawa 905-2192 (Japan); Kawamura, S.; Maitani, M. M.; Suzuki, E.; Wada, Y. [Department of Applied Chemistry, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo 152-8522 (Japan); Mochizuki, D. [Interdisciplinary Cluster for Cutting Edge Research, Center for Energy and Environmental Science, Shinshu University, Ueda, Nagano 386-8567 (Japan)

2015-12-15

Ag-nanoparticle thin films on a polyimide substrate were subjected to microwave sintering by use of a single-mode waveguide applicator. A two-step sintering process was employed. First, at low conductivities of the film, the film sample was placed at the site of the maximum electric field and subjected to microwave irradiation. Second, when the conductivity of the film increased, the film sample was placed at the site of the maximum magnetic field and again subjected to microwave irradiation. The microwave sintering process was completed within 1.5 min, which is significantly lower than the time required for the oven heating process. The resulting conductivity of the film, albeit only 30% of that of the bulk material, was seven times that of a film annealed at the same temperature in a furnace. Scanning electron microscopy images revealed that the nanoparticles underwent both grain necking and grain growth during microwave sintering. In addition, this sintering process was equivalent to the oven heating process performed at a 50 °C higher annealing temperature. An electromagnetic wave simulation and a heat transfer simulation of the microwave sintering process were performed to gain a thorough understanding of the process.

Microwave sintering of Ag-nanoparticle thin films on a polyimide substrate

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

S. Fujii

2015-12-01

Full Text Available Ag-nanoparticle thin films on a polyimide substrate were subjected to microwave sintering by use of a single-mode waveguide applicator. A two-step sintering process was employed. First, at low conductivities of the film, the film sample was placed at the site of the maximum electric field and subjected to microwave irradiation. Second, when the conductivity of the film increased, the film sample was placed at the site of the maximum magnetic field and again subjected to microwave irradiation. The microwave sintering process was completed within 1.5 min, which is significantly lower than the time required for the oven heating process. The resulting conductivity of the film, albeit only 30% of that of the bulk material, was seven times that of a film annealed at the same temperature in a furnace. Scanning electron microscopy images revealed that the nanoparticles underwent both grain necking and grain growth during microwave sintering. In addition, this sintering process was equivalent to the oven heating process performed at a 50 °C higher annealing temperature. An electromagnetic wave simulation and a heat transfer simulation of the microwave sintering process were performed to gain a thorough understanding of the process.

A Review of Metal Injection Molding- Process, Optimization, Defects and Microwave Sintering on WC-Co Cemented Carbide

Science.gov (United States)

Shahbudin, S. N. A.; Othman, M. H.; Amin, Sri Yulis M.; Ibrahim, M. H. I.

2017-08-01

This article is about a review of optimization of metal injection molding and microwave sintering process on tungsten cemented carbide produce by metal injection molding process. In this study, the process parameters for the metal injection molding were optimized using Taguchi method. Taguchi methods have been used widely in engineering analysis to optimize the performance characteristics through the setting of design parameters. Microwave sintering is a process generally being used in powder metallurgy over the conventional method. It has typical characteristics such as accelerated heating rate, shortened processing cycle, high energy efficiency, fine and homogeneous microstructure, and enhanced mechanical performance, which is beneficial to prepare nanostructured cemented carbides in metal injection molding. Besides that, with an advanced and promising technology, metal injection molding has proven that can produce cemented carbides. Cemented tungsten carbide hard metal has been used widely in various applications due to its desirable combination of mechanical, physical, and chemical properties. Moreover, areas of study include common defects in metal injection molding and application of microwave sintering itself has been discussed in this paper.

Scanning Electron Microscopic Studies of Microwave Sintered Al-SiC Nanocomposites and Their Properties

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

M. A. Himyan

2018-01-01

Full Text Available Al-metal matrix composites (AMMCs reinforced with diverse volume fraction of SiC nanoparticles were synthesized using microwave sintering process. The effects of the reinforcing SiC particles on physical, microstructure, mechanical, and electrical properties were studied. The phase, microstructural, and surface analyses of the composites were systematically conducted using X-ray diffraction (XRD, scanning electron microscope (SEM, and surface profilometer techniques, respectively. The microstructural examination revealed the homogeneous distribution of SiC particles in the Al matrix. Microhardness and compressive strength of nanocomposites were found to be increasing with the increasing volume fraction of SiC particles. Electrical conductivity of the nanocomposites decreases with increasing the SiC content.

Studies of ZrO2-Y2O3 ceramics properties sintered in conventional and microwave oven

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gelfuso, M.V.; Capistrano, D.; Thomazini, D.; Grzebielucka, E.C.; Chinelatto, A.L.; Chinelatto, A.S.A.

2009-01-01

The ceramic materials processing with nano grain size has developed materials with new properties or improves some of its existing properties. To obtain ceramics with nano grain size, besides that to obtaining nanometric powders, a major goal is to keep the grains size after sintering. Contributing in this line of research, this study aimed to sinter zirconia-Yttria powders through two processes: conventional and microwave sintering. Zirconia stabilized with Yttria powders were obtained by chemical route based on Pechini method. Cylindrical samples were sintered between 1300 to 1500 deg C between 10 and 40 minutes. The samples were characterized by Xray diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy and apparent density. It was observed that the final microstructure is influenced by both methods of sintering as the curve of firing used. (author)

Sintering and microstructure of ice: a review

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Blackford, Jane R

2007-01-01

Sintering of ice is driven by the thermodynamic requirement to decrease surface energy. The structural morphology of ice in nature has many forms-from snowflakes to glaciers. These forms and their evolution depend critically on the balance between the thermodynamic and kinetic factors involved. Ice is a crystalline material so scientific understanding and approaches from more conventional materials can be applied to ice. The early models of solid state ice sintering are based on power law models originally developed in metallurgy. For pressure sintering of ice, these are based on work on hot isostatic pressing of metals and ceramics. Recent advances in recognizing the grain boundary groove geometry between sintering ice particles require models that use new approaches in materials science. The newer models of sintering in materials science are beginning to incorporate more realistic processing conditions and microstructural complexity, and so there is much to be gained from applying these to ice in the future. The vapour pressure of ice is high, which causes it to sublime readily. The main mechanism for isothermal sintering of ice particles is by vapour diffusion; however other transport mechanisms certainly contribute. Plastic deformation with power law creep combined with recrystallization become important mechanisms in sintering with external pressure. Modern experimental techniques, low temperature scanning electron microscopy and x-ray tomography, are providing new insights into the evolution of microstructures in ice. Sintering in the presence of a small volume fraction of the liquid phase causes much higher bond growth rates. This may be important in natural snow which contains impurities that form a liquid phase. Knowledge of ice microstructure and sintering is beneficial in understanding mechanical behaviour in ice friction and the stability of snow slopes prone to avalanches. (topical review)

Fracture toughness of yttria-stabilized zirconia sintered in conventional and microwave ovens.

Science.gov (United States)

Marinis, Aristotelis; Aquilino, Steven A; Lund, Peter S; Gratton, David G; Stanford, Clark M; Diaz-Arnold, Ana M; Qian, Fang

2013-03-01

The fabrication of zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) dental prosthetic substructures requires an extended sintering process (8 to 10 hours) in a conventional oven. Microwave sintering is a shorter process (2 hours) than conventional sintering. The purpose of this study was to compare the fracture toughness of 3 mol % Y2O3-stabilized ZrO2 sintered in a conventional or microwave oven. Partially sintered ZrO2 specimens from 3 manufacturers, KaVo, Lava 3M, and Crystal HS were milled (KaVo Everest engine) and randomly divided into 2 groups: conventional sintering and microwave sintering (n=16 per group). The specimens were sintered according to the manufacturers' recommendations and stored in artificial saliva for 10 days. Fracture toughness was determined by using a 4-point bend test, and load to fracture was recorded. Mean fracture toughness for each material was calculated. A 2-way ANOVA followed by the Tukey HDS post hoc test was used to assess the significance of sintering and material effects on fracture toughness, including an interaction between the 2 factors (α=.05). The 2-way ANOVA suggested a significant main effect for ZrO2 manufacturer (P.05). The main effect of the sintering process (Conventional [5.30 MPa·m(1/2) ±1.00] or Microwave [5.36 MPa·m(1/2) ±0.92]) was not significant (P=.76), and there was no interaction between sintering and ZrO2 manufacturer (P=.91). Based on the results of this study, no statistically significant difference was observed in the fracture toughness of ZrO2 sintered in microwave or conventional ovens. Copyright © 2013 The Editorial Council of the Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry. Published by Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.

Initial results of a high-power microwave sintering experiment at ORNL

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kimrey, H.D.; White, T.L.; Bigelow, T.S.; Becher, P.F.

1986-01-01

Experiments have recently begun at Oak Ridge National Laboratory to develop microwave sintering techniques suitable for large ceramic parts. Microwave sintering offers the advantages of faster heating rates, more uniform heating, and greater energy efficiency than conventional sintering techniques. We are using 28-GHz, 200-kW cw gyrotrons as the heating source. An untuned cavity is used as the applicator to eliminate geometry sensitivity in coupling efficiency

Fabrication and microstructure of CNTs activated sintered W–Nb alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sha, J.J.; Hao, X.N.; Li, J.; Wang, Z.

2014-01-01

Highlights: • Fabrication and microstructure of CNTs activated sintered W-Nb alloys were investigated. • CNTs could significantly enhance the sintering ability of W-Nb alloys at a low temperature. • The improved sintering was due to the enhanced diffusion of W atoms along the GBs induced by CNTs. • The grain size in CNTs activated sintered W-Nb alloys decreased with increasing the Nb content. -- Abstract: In order to fabricate highly dense W-based alloys at low temperature, in the present work, high-energy ball milling and hot pressing were applied to fabricate W–Nb alloys (mass fraction of Nb varied from 0.5% to 5%), where CNTs were used as the activated sintering additives. The phase composition and microstructure were characterized by XRD and SEM equipped with EDS, respectively. The study found coupled effects of CNTs activated sintering and Nb addition on the enhanced sintering ability and refined microstructure of W at 1500 °C. The main results are: (i) XRD characterization revealed that the high-energy ball milling could significantly reduce the crystallite size of W particles and increase lattice distortion, which would enhance the sintering behavior of W alloys. (ii) The addition of CNTs to W (W–0.1CNTs) led to the formation of nanoscale interfacial layer between W grains during hot pressing, resulting in considerable densification and grain growth. Based on this result, it suggested that the activated sintering of W in the present work is due to an enhanced diffusion of W atoms along the GBs induced by CNTs. (iii) With the addition of CNTs to W–Nb alloys, the densification was improved again, but was not so obvious. The optimal densification was obtained for the W–0.1CNTs–1Nb specimen. Moreover, the microstructure characterization in CNTs activated sintered W–Nb alloys indicated that the distribution of sphere-like W(Nb) solid solution particles and decreased W grain sizes with increasing Nb content are the main microstructure features

Sinterability and microstructure evolution during sintering of ferrous powder mixtures

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Kétner Bendo Demétrio

2013-01-01

Full Text Available The present work is focused on ferrous powder metallurgy and presents some results of a development of a suitable masteralloy for use as an additive to iron powder for the production of sintered steels. The masteralloy was produced by melting a powder mixture containing approximately Fe + 20% Ni + 20% Mn + 20% Si + 1% C (wt%, in order to obtain a cast billet that was converted into fine powder by crushing and milling. It was observed presence of SiC in the masteralloy after melting that is undesirable in the alloy. Si element should be introduced by using ferrosilicon. Sintered alloys with distinct contents of alloying elements were prepared by mixing the masteralloy powder to plain iron powder. Samples were produced by die compaction of the powder mixtures and sintering at 1200 °C in a differential dilatometer in order to record their linear dimensional behaviour during heating up and isothermal sintering, aiming at studying the sinterability of the compacts. Microstructure development during sintering was studied by SEM, XRD and microprobe analyses.

Microstructural and magnetic study of ferrites Ni{sub 0,5}Zn{sub 0,5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} sintered by microwave energy; Estudo microestrutral e magnetico de ferritas Ni{sub 0,5}Zn{sub 0,5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} sinterizadas por energia de micro-ondas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Diniz, V.C.S.; Costa, A.C.F.M., E-mail: veronicacristhina@hotmail.com [Universidade Federal de Campina Grande (UFCG), PB (Brazil). Programa de Pos-Graduacao em Ciencias e Engenharia de Materiais; Kiminami, R.H.G.A. [Universidade Federal de Sao Carlos (UFSCar), SP (Brazil). Departamento de Engenharia de Materiais; Cornejo, D.R. [Universidade de Sao Paulo (USP), SP (Brazil). Instituto de Fisica

2014-07-01

The study of the processing of Ni-Zn ferrite is of extreme importance to improve its magnetic properties, as they are directly influenced by the final microstructure of the material. This study evaluated the influence of exposure time in the sintering of Ni-Zn ferrite phase by microwave energy, and its subsequent microstructural characterization, and magnetic. The samples of Ni-Zn ferrite were sintered using microwave energy at a temperature of 1200 °C and an exposure time of 10, 20 and 30 minutes, respectively. Then were characterized by X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and magnetic measurements. With the results, it was observed that all samples obtained from the formation Ni{sub 0,5}Zn{sub 0,5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} phase with all high intensity peaks. It was possible to obtain a nanostructure with maximum saturation magnetization of 71 emu / g for the sample sintered in longer exposure time. (author)

Phase, microstructure and microwave dielectric properties of A-site deficient (La, Nd2/3TiO3 perovskite ceramics

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Saleem Muhammad

2015-03-01

Full Text Available (La, Nd2/3TiO3 ceramics were prepared through a conventional solid state mixed oxide route. For phase and microstructure analysis, XRD and SEM were used, respectively. Microwave dielectric properties were measured using a network analyzer. XRD patterns revealed the formation of the parent (La, Nd2/3TiO3 phase along with (La, Nd4Ti9O24 as a secondary phase. The microstructure consisted of rectangular and needle shaped grains, which decreased in size from 4 μm to 2 μm with an increase in sintering temperature from 1300 °C to 1350 °C. Decrease in grain size caused an increase in density of the samples from 4.81 g/cm3 to 5.17 g/cm3. Microwave dielectric properties of the samples calcined and sintered in air atmosphere were εr = 40.35, Q × f = 3499 GHz and τf = 0 ppm/°C, whereas for a sample calcined in nitrogen and sintered in air they were εr = 40.18, Q × f = 4077 GHz and τf = +4.9 ppm/°C, respectively.

Microwave synthesis and sintering characteristics of CaCu 3 Ti 4 O 12

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) was synthesized and sintered by microwave processing at 2.45 GHz, 1.1 kW. The optimum calcination temperature using microwave heating was determined to be 950°C for 20 min to obtain cubic CCTO powders. The microwave processed powders were sintered to 94% density at 1000°C/60 min.

FDTD simulation of microwave sintering of ceramics in multimode cavities

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Iskander, M.F.; Smith, R.L.; Andrade, A.O.M.; Walsh, L.M. (Univ. of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (United States). Dept. of Electrical Engineering); Kimrey, H. Jr. (Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (United States))

1994-05-01

At present, various aspects of the sintering process such as preparation of sample sizes and shapes, types of insulations, and the desirability of including a process stimulus such as SiC rods are considered forms of art and highly dependent on human expertise. The simulation of realistic sintering experiments in a multimode cavity may provide an improved understanding of critical parameters involved and allow for the development of guidelines towards the optimization of the sintering process. In this paper, the authors utilize the FDTD technique to model various geometrical arrangements and material compatibility aspects in multimode microwave cavities and to simulate realistic sintering experiments. The FDTD procedure starts with the simulation of a field distribution in multimode microwave cavities that resembles a set of measured data using liquid crystal sheets. Also included in the simulation is the waveguide feed as well as a ceramic loading plate placed at the base of the cavity. The FDTD simulation thus provides realistic representation of a typical sintering experiment. Aspects that have been successfully simulated include the effects of various types of insulation, the role of SiC rods on the uniformity of the resulting microwave fields, and the possible shielding effects that may result from excessive use of SiC. These results as well as others showing the electromagnetic fields and power-deposition patterns in multiple ceramic samples are presented.

Microstructure evolution of SiC sintered bodies activated by boron and carbon

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gubernat, A.; Stobierski, L.

2003-01-01

Investigation on the role of sintering aids on densification of silicon carbide indicate that boron and carbon modify mass transport mechanisms. It leads to changes of microstructure of polycrystalline silicon carbide. In the present work the influence of varying proportions of sintering aids on the material microstructure was studied. The microstructural changes were related to the changes of the selected properties of the resulting materials. (author)

SnO2*CoO ceramic obtained by microwave sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bordignon, M.A.N; Moura, F.; Zaghete, M.A.; Varela, J.A.; Perazolli, L.

2009-01-01

This work consists in the sintering study of CoO doped SnO 2 using microwave sintering oven and silicon carbide as a susceptor. The powders were obtained by dry oxides mixture and conformed in cylindrical shapes with 6mmx8mm and green density to 60%. Then the compacts were sintering up to 1.050 deg C, using heating rate of 50 deg C/min and isotherm up to 30min. The densities obtained were above 95% for both techniques. It was observed that occurred a temperature reducing of 400 deg C and time reducing of 210min to obtain the same densities, when was used the microwave oven without the phenomena of thermal runaway. So the sintered compacts were accomplished using DRX and SEM. It was made the electrical characterization (current x voltage) and it was found to have great potential in the production of dense ceramic-based SnO 2 with low resistivity to obtain electro-ceramic devices. (author)

Effect of temperature on sintered austeno-ferritic stainless steel microstructure

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Munez, C.J. [Departamento de Ciencia e Ingenieria de Materiales, Escuela Superior de Ciencias Experimentales y Tecnologia, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, 28933 Mostoles, Madrid (Spain)], E-mail: claudio.munez@urjc.es; Utrilla, M.V.; Urena, A. [Departamento de Ciencia e Ingenieria de Materiales, Escuela Superior de Ciencias Experimentales y Tecnologia, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, 28933 Mostoles, Madrid (Spain)

2008-09-08

The influence of temperature on microstructural changes of sintered austeno-ferritic steels has been investigated. PM stainless steels have been obtained by sintering mixtures of austenitic and ferritic stainless steel powders. Only temperature-induced phase transformation was observed in austenite, as a result of elements interdiffusion between both phases. Microstructural characterization was completed with atomic force microscopy (AFM) and micro- and nano-indentation test, it is revealed an increase in the hardness with respect to the solutionized materials.

Ultra-fast microwave sintering of PZT/FCO particulate composites prepared by ultrasonic mixing; Sinterizacao ultrarrapida por micro-ondas de compositos particulados PZT/FCO preparados por mistura em ultrassom

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Fernandez, C.P.; Zabotto, F.L.; Garcia, D.; Kiminami, R.H.G.A. [Universidade Federal de Sao Carlos (UFSCar), SP (Brazil)

2017-07-15

Pb(Zr{sub 0.53}Ti{sub 0.47})O{sub 3} (PZT) and Fe{sub 2}CoO{sub 4} (FCO) powders were synthesized separately by the Pechini method and then ultrasonically mixed in molar proportions of 80/20 and 50/50 of PZT/FCO. The resulting composites were pressed and subjected to conventional and ultrafast microwave-assisted sintering. The structure and microstructure of the sintered samples were analyzed, respectively, by X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The dielectric constant as a function of temperature, electrical resistivity and magnetoelectric coupling coefficient were measured. The results indicated that the ultrasonic mixing method applied to PZT and FCO was fast and efficient, and that sintering resulted in globally connected (0-3) particulate composites and uniform distribution of the ferromagnetic phase (FCO) grains in the ferroelectric matrix (PZT). The structural analysis indicated that microwave sintering changed the arrangement (1-3) of the material's local connectivity, which was attributed to the intensification of diffusion processes that occur in this type of sintering, particularly in nanometric systems. The high values of resistivity indicated that although both sintering methods preserved the integrity of the two phases, microwave sintering was more efficient, ensuring the magnetoelectric behavior of all the composites under study. The values of H{sub max} field were dependent on the ferrite phase concentration and sintering; 80/20 1.4 and 1.9 kOe, and 50/50 3.5 and 3.0 kOe in the samples sintered by microwave and conventionally, consistent with the literature, which confirmed the integrity of the constituent phases PZT and FCO. (author)

Microwave flash sintering of inkjet-printed silver tracks on polymer substrates

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Perelaer, J.; Klokkenburg, M.; Hendriks, C.E.; Schubert, U.S.

2009-01-01

Microwave flash sintering of inkjet printed colloidal silver dispersions on thin polymer substrates was studied as a function of the antenna area and initial resistance. The presence of conductive antennae promotes nanoparticle sintering in predried ink lines. For dried nanoparticle inks connected

Microstructure and properties of sintered mullite developed from ...

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Microstructure and properties of sintered mullite developed from Indian bauxite ... ductivity, high-temperature stability, good chemical inertia, ... refractory applications. Normally .... using sputtered gold coating on the polished surface after.

Microwave sintering of cordierite ceramic precursors obtained by starch direct consolidation; Sinterizacion por microondas de precursores ceramicos de cordierita obtenidos por consolidacion directa con almidon

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sandoval, M.L.; Talou, M.H.; Camerucci, M.A., E-mail: andcamer@fi.mdp.edu.a [Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Cientificas e Tecnicas (INTEMA-CONICET-UNMdP), Mar del Plata (Argentina). Inst. de Investigaciones en Ciencia y Tecnologia de Materiales. Lab. de Materiales Estructurales; Universidad Nacional de Mar Del Plata (UNMdP) (Argentina). Fac. de Ingenieria; Souto, P.M. de; Kiminami, R.H.G.A. [Universidade Federal de Sao Carlos (DEMa/UFScar), SP (Brazil). Dept. de Engenharia de Materiais

2009-07-01

Microwave sintering of cordierite disk precursors (mixture of kaolin, talc and alumina) with potato starch was studied. Green disks were obtained by thermal consolidation of stable aqueous suspensions of the ceramic powders (29.6 % vol.) with potato starch (11.5 % vol.) at 75 and 85 deg C, 4h; drying (50 deg C,12h) and calcination (650 deg C, 2h). The reaction-sintering by microwave heating (power: 2.45 GHz; heating rate: 50 deg C/min) at different temperatures (1250-1330 deg C) and dwell times (10-20 min) was carried out. For comparative purposes, the reaction-sintering by conventional heating was analyzed (1330 deg C, 4h a 3 deg C/min). The evolution of the phases as a function of temperature and time was studied by XRD analysis. The developed microstructures (dense or porous) were characterized by density and porosity measurements, and SEM. The obtained results were analyzed in relation to the characteristics of starch behavior in aqueous suspension at temperature and the employed consolidation and sintering conditions. (author)

Microwave sintering and in vitro study of defect-free stable porous multilayered HAp–ZrO2 artificial bone scaffold

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Dong-Woo Jang, Thi-Hiep Nguyen, Swapan Kumar Sarkar and Byong-Taek Lee

2012-01-01

Full Text Available Continuously porous hydroxyapatite (HAp/t-ZrO2 composites containing concentric laminated frames and microchanneled bodies were fabricated by an extrusion process. To investigate the mechanical properties of HAp/t-ZrO2 composites, the porous composites were sintered at different temperatures using a microwave furnace. The microstructure was designed to imitate that of natural bone, particularly small bone, with both cortical and spongy bone sections. Each microchannel was separated by alternating lamina of HAp, HAp–(t-ZrO2 and t-ZrO2. HAp and ZrO2 phases existed on the surface of the microchannel and the core zone to increase the biocompatibility and mechanical properties of the HAp-ZrO2 artificial bone. The sintering behavior was evaluated and the optimum sintering temperature was found to be 1400 °C, which produced a stable scaffold. The material characteristics, such as the microstructure, crystal structure and compressive strength, were evaluated in detail for different sintering temperatures. A detailed in vitro study was carried out using MTT assay, western blot analysis, gene expression by polymerase chain reaction and laser confocal image analysis of cell proliferation. The results confirmed that HAp-ZrO2 performs as an artificial bone, showing excellent cell growth, attachment and proliferation behavior using osteoblast-like MG63 cells.

Sintering and microstructure of ZnO varistor

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Leite, E.R.; Longo, E.; Varela, J.A.

1987-01-01

The sintering and microstructure of ZnO-Bi 2 O 3 (ZB) and ZuO-Sb 2 O 3 -CoO-Bi 2 O 3 (ZSCB) varistors in several temperatures, for one hour in dry air temperature were studied. The compounds were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential thermal analysis and the density and porosity were determined by mercury picnometry. The experimental results showed that the ZB and ZSCB system sinters by liquid means and that liquid will control the density and grain growth mechanisms. (E.G.) [pt

Direct laser sintering of metal powders: Mechanism, kinetics and microstructural features

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Simchi, A.

2006-01-01

In the present work, the densification and microstructural evolution during direct laser sintering of metal powders were studied. Various ferrous powders including Fe, Fe-C, Fe-Cu, Fe-C-Cu-P, 316L stainless steel, and M2 high-speed steel were used. The empirical sintering rate data was related to the energy input of the laser beam according to the first order kinetics equation to establish a simple sintering model. The equation calculates the densification of metal powders during direct laser sintering process as a function of operating parameters including laser power, scan rate, layer thickness and scan line spacing. It was found that when melting/solidification approach is the mechanism of sintering, the densification of metals powders (D) can be expressed as an exponential function of laser specific energy input (ψ) as ln(1 - D) = -Kψ. The coefficient K is designated as 'densification coefficient'; a material dependent parameter that varies with chemical composition, powder particle size, and oxygen content of the powder material. The mechanism of particle bonding and microstructural features of the laser sintered powders are addressed

Effect of CuO addition on the sintering temperature and microwave dielectric properties of CaSiO3–Al2O3 ceramics

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Denghao Li

2014-06-01

Full Text Available CuO-doped CaSiO3–1 wt% Al2O3 ceramics were synthesized via a traditional solid-state reaction method, and their sintering behavior, microstructure and microwave dielectric properties were investigated. The results showed that appropriate CuO addition could accelerate the sintering process and assist the densification of CaSiO3–1 wt% Al2O3 ceramics, which could effectively lower the densification temperature from 1250 °C to 1050 °C. However, the addition of CuO undermined the microwave dielectric properties. The optimal amount of CuO addition was found to be 0.8 wt%, and the derived CaSiO3–Al2O3 ceramic sintered at 1100 °C presented good microwave dielectric properties of εr=7.27, Q×f=16,850 GHz and τf=−39.53 ppm/°C, which is much better than those of pure CaSiO3 ceramic sintered at 1340 oC (Q×f=13,109 GHz. The chemical compatibility of the above ceramic with 30 Pd/70 Ag during the cofiring process has also been investigated, and the result showed that there was no chemical reaction between palladium–silver alloys and ceramics.

Microstructural examination by TEM of WC/Co composites prepared by conventional and Microwave processes

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Agrawal, D.; Cheng, J.; Papworth, A.J.; Jain, H.; Williams, D.B.

2001-01-01

Recently, significant developments and advances have taken place in the field of microwave processing of ceramics, composites and metals. Microwave sintering technology of WC/Co based hard metal parts has been now developed for commercial products. Microwave processed WC/Co parts reportedly have exhibited superior performance over standard parts. Additionally, the microwave process requires only one tenth of the total cycle time employed in a conventional process. Laboratory corrosion and impact resistance tests have proved that microwave processed WC/Co parts are several times more resistant than the conventional parts of the same composition. The scanning transmission electron microscopic (STEM) examination conducted an conventionally and microwave sintered WC/Co samples exhibited remarkable difference in the chemistry of cobalt binder phase. It is understood that the superior mechanical properties of microwave sintered part are due to the pure cobalt phase present at the grain boundary of WC grains, while the conventionally sintered part showed there was substantial inter-alloying of Co with tungsten. (author)

Preparation of mullite whiskers reinforced SiC/Al2O3 composites by microwave sintering

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Wei Li

2016-12-01

Full Text Available Mullite whiskers reinforced SiC/Al2O3 composites were prepared by microwave sintering in a microwave chamber with TE666 resonant mode. Original SiC particles were coated with SiO2 using sol-gel processing and mixed with Al2O3 particles. Mullite was formed in the reaction between SiO2 and Al2O3. The isostatically pressed cylindrical pellets were sintered from 1350 °C to 1600 °C for 30 min. Physical and chemical responses were investigated by detecting changes in reflected power during the microwave sintering process. XRD was carried out to characterize the samples and showed that mullite could be formed at 1200 °C. Bridging of mullite whiskers between Al2O3 and SiC particles was observed by SEM and is due to a so-called local hot spot effect, which was the unique feature for microwave sintering. The optimized microwave sintering temperature was 1500 °C corresponding to the maximum amount of mullite whiskers within SiC/Al2O3 composites. The high electro-magnetic field enhanced the decomposition of mullite at higher temperatures above 1550 °C. The mechanical properties of mullite whiskers reinforced SiC/Al2O3 composites are much better than the SiC/Al2O3 composites without mullite whiskers.

Effect of two-stage sintering process on microstructure and mechanical properties of ODS tungsten heavy alloy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lee, Kyong H. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 373-1 Kusong-dong, Yusong-gu, Taejon 305-701 (Korea, Republic of); Cha, Seung I. [International Center for Young Scientists, National Institute for Materials Science 1-1, Namiki, Tsukuba 305-0044 (Japan); Ryu, Ho J. [DUPIC, Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, 150 Deokjin-dong, Yusong-gu, Taejon 305-353 (Korea, Republic of); Hong, Soon H. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, 373-1 Kusong-dong, Yusong-gu, Taejon 305-701 (Korea, Republic of)], E-mail: shhong@kaist.ac.kr

2007-06-15

Oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) tungsten heavy alloys have been considered as promising candidates for advanced kinetic energy penetrator due to their characteristic fracture mode compared to conventional tungsten heavy alloy. In order to obtain high relative density, the ODS tungsten heavy alloy needs to be sintered at higher temperature for longer time, however, induces growth of tungsten grains. Therefore, it is very difficult to obtain controlled microstructure of ODS tungsten heavy alloy having fine tungsten grains with full densification. In this study, two-stage sintering process, consisted of primary solid-state sintering and followed by secondary liquid phase sintering, was introduced for ODS tungsten heavy alloys. The mechanically alloyed 94W-4.56Ni-1.14Fe-0.3Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} powders are solid-state sintered at 1300-1450 deg. C for 1 h in hydrogen atmosphere, and followed by liquid phase sintering temperature at 1465-1485 deg. C for 0-60 min. The microstructure of ODS tungsten heavy alloys showed high relative density above 97%, with contiguous tungsten grains after primary solid-state sintering. The microstructure of solid-state sintered ODS tungsten heavy alloy was changed into spherical tungsten grains embedded in W-Ni-Fe matrix during secondary liquid phase sintering. The two-stage sintered ODS tungsten heavy alloy from mechanically alloyed powders showed finer microstructure and higher mechanical properties than conventional liquid phase sintered alloy. The mechanical properties of ODS tungsten heavy alloys are dependent on the microstructural parameters such as tungsten grain size, matrix volume fraction and tungsten/tungsten contiguity, which can be controlled through the two-stage sintering process.

Microstructure and superconducting properties of Bi-2223/Ag tapes fabricated in the two-step sintering process

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Lu, X.Y.; Nagata, A.; Sugawara, K.

2008-01-01

The microstructure and superconducting properties of Bi-2223/Ag tapes fabricated in the two-step sintering process were investigated. The tapes were then subjected to two heat treatments with an intermediate rolling. All the tapes were sintered at 835 deg. C for 24 h at initial sintering stage. A two-step sintering procedure was then used in the final sintering stage. In the first step, the tapes are sintered at 840-865 deg. C for 1 h. In the second step, they were sintered at 835 deg. C for 120 h. The results show that the first step sintering temperature has significant influence on the microstructure and the critical current density J c . The observed microstructures are consistent well with the different J c performances of the tapes first-step-sintered at different temperatures. The tape first-step-sintered at 850 deg. C, which has small secondary phases, stronger c-axis grain alignment, higher proportion of Bi-2223 phase, and no cracks, exhibits the highest J c value

Microwave combustion and sintering without isostatic pressure

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ebadian, M.A.

1998-01-01

In recent years interest has grown rapidly in the application of microwave energy to the processing of ceramics, composites, polymers, and other materials. Advances in the understanding of microwave/materials interactions will facilitate the production of new ceramic materials with superior mechanical properties. One application of particular interest is the use of microwave energy for the mobilization of uranium for subsequent redeposition. Phase III (FY98) will focus on the microwave assisted chemical vapor infiltration tests for mobilization and redeposition of radioactive species in the mixed sludge waste. Uranium hexachloride and uranium (IV) borohydride are volatile compounds for which the chemical vapor infiltration procedure might be developed for the separation of uranium. Microwave heating characterized by an inverse temperature profile within a preformed ceramic matrix will be utilized for CVI using a carrier gas. Matrix deposition is expected to commence from the inside of the sample where the highest temperature is present. The preform matrix materials, which include aluminosilicate based ceramics and silicon carbide based ceramics, are all amenable to extreme volume reduction, densification, and vitrification. Important parameters of microwave sintering such as frequency, power requirement, soaking temperature, and holding time will be investigated to optimize process conditions for the volatilization of uranyl species using a reactive carrier gas in a microwave chamber

Preparing Magnetocaloric LaFeSi Uniform Microstructures by Spark Plasma Sintering

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Vicente, N.; Ocanã, J.; Neves Bez, Henrique

2014-01-01

Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) of LaFeSi alloy powders was conducted to prepare magnetocaloric La-Fe-Si-based uniform microstructures. Two electrically insulating discs made of alumina were interposed between the punches and powder sample inhibiting the flow of electric current across the powder...... from hydrogenated and decrypted casting ingot. The characterizations of sintered samples were performed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Archimedes principle, Vicker’s hardness and microhardness. The uniformity of the microstructure was evaluated by checking the evidence of position on the Vicker...

Sintering, microstructural and dilatometric studies of combustion synthesized Synroc phases

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Muthuraman, M.; Patil, K.C.; Senbagaraman, S.; Umarji, A.M.

1996-01-01

Sintering, microstructure, and linear thermal expansion properties of Synroc-B and constituent phases, viz. perovskite CaTiO 3 , zirconolite ZrTi 2 O 7 , hollandite (ideal formula BaAl2Ti 6 O 16 ) have been investigated. Synroc-B powder when pelletized and sintered at 1250 C for 2 h achieved >95% theoretical density. Sintered Synroc-B has a linear thermal expansion coefficient α of 8.72 x 10 -6 K -1 and Vicker's microhardness 9.88 GPa. The linear thermal expansion curves did not show any hysteresis indicating the absence of microcracking in the sintered bodies

Prospects of microwave processing: An overview

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Administrator

Microstructures of sintered titania samples: (a) microwave and (b) conventional. Figure 5. ..... contaminated soil vitrification, volatile organic compounds treatment and ... ficant advancements will take place in the science and technology of ...

FDTD simulation of microwave sintering in large (500/4000 liter) multimode cavities

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Subirats, M.; Iskander, M.F.; White, M.J. [Univ. of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (United States). Electrical Engineering Dept.; Kiggans, J. [Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (United States)

1996-12-31

To help develop large-scale microwave-sintering processes and to explore the feasibility of the commercial utilization of this technology, the authors used the recently developed multi-grid 3D Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) code and the 3D Finite-Difference Heat-Transfer (FDHT) code to determine the electromagnetic (EM) fields, the microwave power deposition, and temperature-distribution patterns in layers of samples processed in large-scale multimode microwave cavities. This paper presents results obtained from the simulation of realistic sintering experiments carried out in both 500 and 4,000 liter furnaces operating at 2.45 GHz. The ceramic ware being sintered is placed inside a cubical crucible box made of rectangular plates of various ceramic materials with various electrical and thermal properties. The crucible box can accommodate up to 5 layers of ceramic samples with 16 to 20 cup-like samples per layer. Simulation results provided guidelines regarding selection of crucible-box materials, crucible-box geometry, number of layers, shelf material between layers, and the fraction volume of the load vs. that of the furnace. Results from the FDTD and FDHT simulations will be presented and various tradeoffs involved in designing an effective microwave-processing system will be compared graphically.

Microstructure evolution during pressureless sintering of bulk oxide ceramics

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Karel Maca

2009-06-01

Full Text Available The author’s experience concerning the infl uence of the choice of different pressureless heating schedules on the fi nal microstructure of oxide ceramic materials is summarized in the paper. Alumina, ceria, strontium titanate, as well as tetragonal (3 mol% Y2O3 and cubic (8 mol% Y2O3 zirconia were cold isostatically pressed or injection moulded and pressureless sintered with different heating schedules – namely with Constant-Rate of Heating with different dwell temperatures (CRH, with Rate-Controlled Sintering (RCS and with Two-Step Sintering (TSS. It was examined whether some of these three sintering schedules, with the same fi nal density achieved, can lead to a decrease of the grain size of sintered ceramics. The results showed that only TSS (and only for selected materials brought significant decrease of the grain size.

Liquid phase sintered SiC. Processing and transformation controlled microstructure tailoring

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

V.A. Izhevskyi

2000-10-01

Full Text Available Microstructure development and phase formation processes during sintering of silicon carbide based materials with AlN-Y2O3, AlN-Yb2O3, and AlN-La2O3 sintering additives were investigated. Densification of the materials occurred by liquid-phase sintering mechanism. Proportion of alpha- and beta-SiC powders in the initial mixtures was a variable parameter, while the molar ratio of AlN/RE2O3, and the total amount of additives (10 vol. % were kept constant. Shrinkage behavior during sintering in interrelation with the starting composition of the material and the sintering atmosphere was investigated by high temperature dilatometry. Kinetics of b-SiC to a-SiC phase transformation during post-sintering heat treatment at temperatures 1900-1950 °C was studied, the degree of phase transformation being determined by quantitative x-ray analysis using internal standard technique. Evolution of microstructure resulting from beta-SiC to alpha-SiC transformation was followed up by scanning electron microscopy on polished and chemically etched samples. Transformation-controlled grain growth mechanism similar to the one observed for silicon nitride based ceramics was established. Possibility of in-situ platelet reinforced dense SiC-based ceramics fabrication with improved mechanical properties by means of sintering was shown.

The effect of particle size distributions on the microstructural evolution during sintering

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Bjørk, Rasmus; Tikare, V.; Frandsen, Henrik Lund

2013-01-01

Microstructural evolution and sintering behavior of powder compacts composed of spherical particles with different particle size distributions (PSDs) were simulated using a kinetic Monte Carlo model of solid state sintering. Compacts of monosized particles, normal PSDs with fixed mean particle...

Microstructure characteristics of high borated stainless steel fabricated by hot-pressing sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Zhou, Xuan; Wang, Mingjia, E-mail: mingjiawangysu@126.com; Zhao, Hongchang

2016-04-25

The present study investigated the microstructure of powder metallurgy (P/M) high borated stainless steel through hot-pressing sintering in a temperature range of 1000–1150 °C within 30 min under 30 MPa. Microstructure and phase examinations were carried out by applying scanning electron microscope, electron backscatter diffraction and X-ray diffraction analysis. The results of as-atomized powders demonstrated that many powders kept egg-type structure with an austenite outer layer and the eutectic borides were much finer than those in traditional cast products. Microstructure studies revealed that borides suffered Ostwald ripening and were significantly influenced by the sintering temperature. Orientation maps indicated that the inter-particle contact areas consisted of equiaxed grains and the regions consisting of large elongated grains partly inherited the microstructure characteristics of as-atomized powder particles. Furthermore, the mechanisms governing the morphological changes in microstructure were discussed. - Highlights: • Near-complete densification could be obtained through hot-pressing sintering. • There was no phase transformation and present phases were M{sub 2}B and austenite. • Borides suffered Ostwald ripening and were significantly influenced by temperature. • Inter-particle contact areas consisted of equiaxed grains for recrystallization. • Deformation-free zones exhibited elongated grains for dendritic arms coarsening.

Microstructural development and mechanical properties of iron based cermets processed by pressureless and spark plasma sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Alvaredo, P.; Gordo, E.; Van der Biest, O.; Vanmeensel, K.

2012-01-01

Highlights: ► Processing of Fe-based cermets by pressureless sintering and spark plasma sintering. ► Influence of carbon content on the sintering mechanism and hardness. ► The cermet phase diagram was calculated and permits to explain the microstructure. ► SPS provides ferritic matrix and different carbide distribution than CPS samples. ► Pressureless sintered samples contain retained austenite at room temperature. - Abstract: Iron-based cermets are an interesting class of metal-ceramic composites in which properties and the factors influencing them are to be explored. In this work the metal matrix contains Cr, W, Mo and V as alloying elements, and the hard phase is constituted by 50 vol% of titanium carbonitride (TiCN) particles. The work studies the influence of the C content and the processing method on the sinterability, microstructure and hardness of the developed cermet materials. For that purpose, cermet samples with different C content in the matrix (0 wt%, 0.25 wt%, 0.5 wt%, 1.0 wt%) were prepared by conventional pressureless sintering (CPS) and, in order to achieve finer microstructures and to reduce the sintering time, by spark plasma sintering (SPS). The density and hardness (HV30) of the processed materials was evaluated, while their phase composition and microstructure was characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. The equilibrium phase diagram of the composite material was calculated by ThermoCalc software in order to elucidate the influence of the carbon content on the obtained phases and developed microstructures.

Microstructure and Mechanical Behavior of Microwave Sintered Cu50Ti50 Amorphous Alloy Reinforced Al Metal Matrix Composites

Science.gov (United States)

Reddy, M. Penchal; Ubaid, F.; Shakoor, R. A.; Mohamed, A. M. A.

2018-06-01

In the present work, Al metal matrix composites reinforced with Cu-based (Cu50Ti50) amorphous alloy particles synthesized by ball milling followed by a microwave sintering process were studied. The amorphous powders of Cu50Ti50 produced by ball milling were used to reinforce the aluminum matrix. They were examined by x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), microhardness and compression testing. The analysis of XRD patterns of the samples containing 5 vol.%, 10 vol.% and 15 vol.% Cu50Ti50 indicates the presence of Al and Cu50Ti50 peaks. SEM images of the sintered composites show the uniform distribution of reinforced particles within the matrix. Mechanical properties of the composites were found to increase with an increasing volume fraction of Cu50Ti50 reinforcement particles. The hardness and compressive strength were enhanced to 89 Hv and 449 MPa, respectively, for the Al-15 vol.% Cu50Ti50 composites.

Sintered stabilized zirconia microstructure and conductivity

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bernard, Herve.

1981-04-01

The elaboration of a stabilized zirconia powder which sinters at 1300 0 C and the influence of the sintered polycristal microstructure on its ionic conductivity have been studied. Among three investigated powder preparation processes, coprecipitation in an ammoniacal solution was chosen. After sintering at 1300 0 C, the pellet density was higher than 93% of the theoretical density. It even approached up to 98% TD with addition of less than 0,5 mole % Al 2 O 3 to the initial powder. The overall electrolyte conductivity and the inter and intragranular contributions have been determined by complex impedance spectroscopy. ZrO 2 -Y 2 O 3 solid solution conductivity was scarcely improved by Y 2 O 3 exchange with Yb 2 O 3 or Gd 2 O 3 . This conductivity greatly increases with grain size, its improvement with decreasing porosity, which has been quantified, is less sensible. Moreover, two original properties were noticed: small amounts of Al 2 O 3 and quenching greatly enhanced the overall conductivity. At temperatures below 500 0 C, grain boundaries only insured a partial migration of conductive ions. A parallel type electrical equivalent circuit suited well with this blocking effect [fr

The influence of sintering temperature on microstructure and mechanical properties of Ni-Al intermetallics fabricated by SPS

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Thömmes, A., E-mail: thoemmes.alexander@gmail.com; Shevtsova, L. I., E-mail: edeliya2010@mail.ru; Laptev, I. S., E-mail: ilya-laptev-nstu@mail.ru; Mul, D. O., E-mail: ddariol@yandex.ru [Novosibirsk State Technical University, Novosibirsk, 630073 (Russian Federation); Mali, V. I., E-mail: vmali@mail.ru; Anisimov, A. G., E-mail: anis@hydro.nsc.ru [Lavrentyev Institute of Hydrodynamics SB RAS, Novosibirsk, 630090 (Russian Federation)

2015-10-27

In the present study PN85Yu15 was used as elemental powder to produce a sintered compound with Ni3Al as main phase. The Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) technique is used to compact the powders. The powder was sintered in a temperature range between 1000°C and 1150°C to observe the influence of the sintering temperature on the microstructure and the mechanical properties. The microstructure was observed with optical microscope (OM), the phase composition was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique. Density and microhardness were observed and compared the values with the results of other researchers. The compressive-, density- and microhardness tests show as clear result that with increasing the sintering temperature nearly all properties become better and also the microstructure studies show that porous places become less.

The influence of green microstructure and sintering parameters on precipitation process during copper-nickel-zinc ferrites sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Barba, A.; Clausell, C.; Jarque, J. C.; Monzo, M.

2014-01-01

Microstructural changes that occur during heat treatment of copper-nickel-zinc ferrites have been studied. The process of precipitation of the two types of crystals that occur during the sintering process has been analyzed. It is found that this process depends on dry relative density of the press specimens and on the following sintering parameters: sintering temperature, sintering time and cooling rate of the thermal cycle. Crystal precipitates characterization have been done by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). These techniques have allowed to determine the nature of these crystals, which in this case correspond to zinc and copper oxides. It has been used two chemical reactions to explain the bulk precipitation and subsequent re-dissolution of these crystal precipitates during sintering. (Author)

Magnetic and microstructural properties of Ni-Zn ferrites synthesized and sintered by microwave energy; Propriedades magneticas e microestruturais de ferritas Ni-Zn sintetizadas e sinterizadas oir energia de microondas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vieira, D.A.; Diniz, V.C.S.; Sousa, J-P.LM.L.; Costa, A.C.F.M. [Universidade Federal de Campina Grande (UFCG), PB (Brazil). Dept. de Engenharia de Materiais; Kiminami, R.H.G.A. [Universidade Federal de Sao Carlos (UFScar), SP (Brazil). Dept. de Engenharia de Materiais; Cornejo, D.R. [Universidade de Sao Paulo (IF/USP), SP (Brazil). Inst. de Fisica

2009-07-01

The soft ferrites (or soft) and the Ni-Zn type are composed of spinel with cubic structure, which exhibit a permanent magnetization, called ferrimagnetism. Thus, this work will be assessed the structure and magnetic properties of ferrites Ni{sub 0},{sub 5}Zn{sub 0},{sub 5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} prepared by combustion reaction using microwave energy as a source of heat and urea as fuel and after sintering by microwave energy. The synthesized powders were compacted by uniaxial pressing. The synthesized powders and the samples after sintering were characterized by XRD, SEM and magnetic measures. The diffractogram X-ray powder and the sintered samples showed the presence of the desired phase Ni{sub 0},{sub 5}Zn{sub 0},{sub 5}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} in both cases. The powders and sintered samples resulted in the Ms value of 8.09 emu/g and 67.73 emu/g, respectively. (author)

Low-Temperature Sintering Li3Mg1.8Ca0.2NbO6 Microwave Dielectric Ceramics with LMZBS Glass

Science.gov (United States)

Wang, Gang; Zhang, Huaiwu; Liu, Cheng; Su, Hua; Jia, Lijun; Li, Jie; Huang, Xin; Gan, Gongwen

2018-05-01

Li3Mg1.8Ca0.2NbO6 ceramics doped with Li2O-MgO-ZnO-B2O3-SiO2 glass (LMZBS) were prepared via a solid-state route. The LMZBS glass effectively reduced the sintering temperature of Li3Mg1.8Ca0.2NbO6 ceramics to 950°C. The effects of the LMZBS glass on the sintering behavior, microstructures and microwave dielectric properties of Li3Mg1.8Ca0.2NbO6 ceramics are discussed in detail. Among all the LMZBS doped Li3Mg1.8Ca0.2NbO6 ceramics, the sample with 1 wt.% of LMZBS glass sintered at 950°C for 4 h exhibited good dielectric properties: ɛ r = 16.7, Q × f = 31,000 GHz (9.92 GHz), τ f = - 1.3 ppm/°C. The Li3Mg1.8Ca0.2NbO6 ceramics possessed excellent chemical compatibility with Ag electrodes, and could be applied in low temperature co-fired ceramics (LTCC) applications.

Microstructural evaluation of the NbC-20Ni cemented carbides during sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rodrigues, D.; Cannizza, E.

2016-01-01

Full text: Fine carbides in a metallic matrix (binder) form the microstructure of the cemented carbides. Grain size and binder content are the main variables to adjust hardness and toughness. These products are produced by Powder Metallurgy, and traditional route involves mixing carbides with binder by high energy milling, pressing and sintering. During sintering, a liquid phase promotes densification, and a final relative density higher than 99% is expected. Sintering is carried out at high temperatures, and dissolution of the carbides changes the chemical composition of the binder. To control grain growth of the main carbide, which reduces hardness, small quantities of secondary carbides are used. These additives limit dissolution and precipitation of the main carbides reducing the final grain size. This paper focused the structural and chemical evolution during sintering using NbC-20Ni cermets. Mixtures of very fine NbC carbides and carbonyl Ni powders were produce by intense milling. These mixtures were pressed using uniaxial pressures from 50 to 200MPa. Shrinkage was evaluated using dilatometric measurements under an atmosphere of dynamic argon. Samples were also sintered under vacuum in high temperature industrial furnace. The sintered samples were characterized in terms of density hardness, toughness and microstructure. DRX was the main tool used to evaluate the structural evolution of the binder. In situ chemical analysis helped to understand the dissolution mechanisms. (author)

Powder injection molding of Stellite 6 powder: Sintering, microstructural and mechanical properties

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gülsoy, H. Özkan; Özgün, Özgür; Bilketay, Sezer

2016-01-01

The purpose of this study was to produce Co-based Stellite 6 superalloy components by using the method of Powder Injection Molding (PIM) and to characterize the microstructural and mechanical properties of the produced components. The experimental studies were started through the formation of feedstock by mixing Stellite 6 powder with a multicomponent binder system. Prepared feedstock was formed by utilizing powder injection molding technique. Then the molded samples were subjected to the solvent and thermal debinding processes. Different sintering cycles were applied to the raw components for the purpose of determining the optimum sintering conditions. The densities of the sintered components were determined in accordance with the Archimedes' principle. The microstructural characterization was performed through scanning electron microscope (SEM) analysis, energy dispersive spectrometry (EDS) analyses, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis. Hardness measurement and tensile test were conducted in order to determine the mechanical properties. The results illustrated that the injection molded Stellite 6 components were composed of fine and equiaxed grains, plenty of carbide precipitates exhibiting homogenous distribution throughout the microstructure formed at the grain boundaries and thus the mechanical properties were considerably high.

Microwave Sintering of Ceramic Materials for Industrial Application Final Report CRADA No. TC-1116-95

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Caplan, M. [Lawrence Livermore National Lab. (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States); Tandon, R. [Lawrence Livermore National Lab. (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States); Callis, R. [Lawrence Livermore National Lab. (LLNL), Livermore, CA (United States)

2017-10-19

The goal of this project was to develop the commercial capability in the US to sinter alumina oxide ceramic parts for the semiconductor manufacturing equipment industry. We planned to use the millimeter microwave (30 GHz) sintering system first developed by IAP in Russia.

Improved microstructure and thermoelectric properties of iodine doped indium selenide as a function of sintering temperature

Science.gov (United States)

Dhama, Pallavi; Kumar, Aparabal; Banerji, P.

2018-04-01

In this paper, we explored the effect of sintering temperature on the microstructure, thermal and electrical properties of iodine doped indium selenide in the temperature range 300 - 700 K. Samples were prepared by a collaborative process of vacuum melting, ball milling and spark plasma sintering at 570 K, 630 K and 690 K. Single phase samples were obtained at higher sintering temperature as InSe is stable only at lower temperature. With increasing sintering temperature, densities of the samples were found to improve with larger grain size formation. Negative values of Seebeck coefficient were observed which indicates n-type carrier transport. Seebeck coefficient increases with sintering temperature and found to be the highest for the sample sintered at 690 K. Thermal conductivity found to be lower in the samples sintered at lower temperatures. The maximum thermoelectric figure of merit found to be ˜ 1 at 700 K due to the enhanced power factor as a result of improved microstructure.

Phase, microstructure and microwave dielectric properties of Mg0:95Ni0:05Ti0:98Zr0:02O3 ceramics

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Manan Abdul

2015-03-01

Full Text Available Mg0:95Ni0:05Ti0:98Zr0:02O3 ceramics was prepared via conventional solid-state mixed-oxide route. The phase, microstructure and microwave dielectric properties of the sintered samples were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD, scanning electron microscopy (SEM and a vector network analyzer. The microstructure comprised of circular and elongated plate-like grains. The semi quantitative analysis (EDS of the circular and elongated grains revealed the existence of Mg0:95Ni0:05T2O5 as a secondary phase along with the parent Mg0:95Ni0:05Ti0:98Zr0:02O3 phase, which was consistent with the XRD findings. In the present study, εr ~17.1, Qufo~195855 ± 2550 GHz and τf ~ -46 ppm/K was achieved for the synthesized Mg0:95Ni0:05Ti0:98Zr0:02O3 ceramics sintered at 1325 °C for 4 h.

The Influence of Spark Plasma Sintering Temperature on the Microstructure and Thermoelectric Properties of Al,Ga Dual-Doped ZnO

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Han, Li; Le, Thanh Hung; Van Nong, Ngo

2013-01-01

ZnO dual-doped with Al and Ga was prepared by spark plasma sintering using different sintering temperatures. The microstructural evolution and thermoelectric properties of the samples were investigated in detail. The samples obtained with sintering temperature above 1223 K had higher relative...... of ZnO particles and microstructure evolution at different sintering temperatures were investigated by simulation of the self-Joule-heating effect of the individual particles....

Sintering and microstructure evolution of columnar nickel-based superalloy sheets prepared by EB-PVD

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chen, S.; Qu, S.J.; Liang, J.; Han, J.C.

2010-01-01

Research highlights: → EB-PVD technology is commonly used to deposit thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) and columnar structure is commonly seen in EB-PVD condensates. The unique columnar structure can provide outstanding resistance against thermal shock and mechanical strains for TBCs. However, a number of researchers have found that the columnar structure can affect the mechanical properties of EB-PVD alloy thin sheet significantly. As yet, works on how to reduce this kind of effects are seldom done. In the present article, we tried to reveal the sintering effects on microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of columnar Ni-based superalloy sheet. The results suggests that after sintering, the columnar structure degrades. Degradation depends on sintering temperature and time. Both the ultimate tensile strength and the elongation percentage are effectively improved after sintering. - Abstract: A ∼0.15 mm-thick columnar nickel-based superalloy sheet was obtained by electron beam physical vapor deposition (EB-PVD). The as-deposited alloy sheet was sintered at different conditions. The microstructure of the specimens before and after sintering was characterized by using scanning electron microscopy. An X'Pert texture facility was used to determine the crystallographic orientation of the as-deposited alloy sheet. The phase transformation was investigated by X-ray diffraction. Tensile tests were conducted at room temperature on as-deposited and sintered specimens. The results show that the as-deposited sheet is composed of typical columnar structures. After sintering, however, the columnar structure degrades. The degradation depends on sintering temperature and time. Both the ultimate tensile strength and the elongation percentage are effectively improved after sintering.

Addition of niobia in alumina and its effects at its sintered microstructure

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gomes, L.B.; Lima, M.M.O.; Pereira, A.S.; Bergmann, C.P.

2016-01-01

In this work, niobia was used as sintering additive of alumina in concentrations of 0.15, 0.5, 2 and 4 wt%. Homogenized powders was uniaxially pressed (200MPa) forming ceramic pellets with 10 mm diameter. The green bodies were sintered at 1400, 1500 and 1600°C for 60 minutes using a heating rate of 2,5°C.min -1 . After sintering, the specimens were polished using diamond paste with different particle sizes. The specimen's microstructure was analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and crystalline phases were determined by X-ray Diffraction (XRD). Results indicate that when niobia and alumina react they form AlNbO4 by liquid phase sintering. This phase is located among alumina grain. It was also verified that niobia addition promotes grain growth, acting as sintering agent, and this effect grows as niobia content and sintering temperature increase. (author)

Hexagonal OsB2: Sintering, microstructure and mechanical properties

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Xie, Zhilin; Lugovy, Mykola; Orlovskaya, Nina; Graule, Thomas; Kuebler, Jakob; Mueller, Martin; Gao, Huili; Radovic, Miladin; Cullen, David A.

2015-01-01

Highlights: • ReB 2 -type hexagonal OsB 2 powder has been densified by spark plasma sintering. • The sintered OsB 2 contains ∼80 wt.% hexagonal and ∼20 wt.% orthorhombic phases. • The average grain size of the sintered OsB 2 sample was 0.56 ± 0.26 μm. • H = 31 ± 9 GPa and E = 574 ± 112 GPa measured by nanoindentation. - Abstract: The metastable high pressure ReB 2 -type hexagonal OsB 2 bulk ceramics was produced by spark plasma sintering. The phase composition, microstructure, and mechanical behavior of the sintered OsB 2 were studied by X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, TEM, SEM, EDS, and nanoindentation. The produced ceramics was rather porous and contained a mixture of hexagonal (∼80 wt.%) and orthorhombic (∼20 wt.%) phases as identified by X-ray diffraction and EBSD analysis. Two boron-rich phases, which do not contain Os, were also identified by TEM and SEM/EDS analysis. Nanoindentation measurements yielded a hardness of 31 ± 9 GPa and Young’s modulus of 574 ± 112 GPa, indicating that the material is rather hard and very stiff; however, it is very prone to crack formation and propagation, which is indicative of a very brittle nature of this material. Improvements in the sintering regime are required in order to produce dense, homogeneous and single phase hexagonal OsB 2 bulk ceramics

Identification of microstructural mechanisms during densification of a TiAl alloy by spark plasma sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jabbar, Houria; Couret, Alain; Durand, Lise [CNRS, CEMES-UPR 8011, Centre d' Elaboration de Materiaux et d' Etudes Structurales, BP 94347, 29 rue J. Marvig, F-31055 Toulouse (France); Universite de Toulouse, UPS, F-31055 Toulouse (France); Monchoux, Jean-Philippe, E-mail: monchoux@cemes.fr [CNRS, CEMES-UPR 8011, Centre d' Elaboration de Materiaux et d' Etudes Structurales, BP 94347, 29 rue J. Marvig, F-31055 Toulouse (France); Universite de Toulouse, UPS, F-31055 Toulouse (France)

2011-10-13

Graphical abstract: Highlights: > Mechanisms of a TiAl alloy powder densified by spark plasma sintering are identified. > Microstructure evolution of the powder is followed during the sintering cycle. > As-atomized supersaturated powder comes back to equilibrium. > Densification occurs by plastification of the particles at high temperature. > No mechanisms related to electric current are observed. - Abstract: This work aims at identifying, by coupled scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) observations, the densification mechanisms occurring when an atomized Ti-47Al-1W-1Re-0.2Si powder is densified by spark plasma sintering (SPS). For this purpose, interruptions of the SPS cycle have been performed to follow the evolution of the microstructure step by step. The powder particles exhibit a classical dendritic microstructure containing a large amount of out-of-equilibrium {alpha} phase. During heating-up, the microstructure undergoes successive transformations. At T = 525-875 deg. C the {alpha} phase transforms into {gamma}. The {gamma} phase formed is supersaturated in W and Re. It de-saturates for T above 875 deg. C by discontinuous precipitation of W and Re-rich B2 phase. Densification takes place for T between 900 deg. C and 1150 deg. C by plastic deformation of the powder particles. TEM observations show that the repartition of the plastic deformation is correlated to the dendritic microstructure, and that dynamic recrystallization mechanisms occur. Microstructural phenomena directly resulting from the high currents involved in the SPS process have not been observed.

Microstructural Analysis of Sintered Gradient Materials Based on Distaloy SE Powder

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Zarębski K.

2016-06-01

Full Text Available The study describes the microstructural analysis of cylindrically-shaped functionally graded products sintered from iron powder with scheduled graded structure on the cross-section running from the core to the surface layer of the sinter. Different types of structure were produced using Distaloy SE powder in two compositions - one without the addition of carbon, and another with 0.6wt% C. Two methods were used to fill the die cavity and shape the products. The first method involving a two-step compaction of individual layers. The second method using an original technique of die filling enabled the formation of transition zone between the outer layer and the core still at the stage of product shaping. As part of microstructural analysis, structural constituents were identified and voids morphology was examined. Studies covered the effect of the type of the applied method on properties of the graded zone obtained in the manufactured products

Glass additive influence on the sintering behavior, microstructure and microwave magnetic properties of Cu-Bi-Zn co-doped Co2Z ferrites

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Hsiang, Hsing-I; Mei, Li-Then; Hsi, Chi-Shiung; Wu, Wei-Cheng; Cheng, Li-Bao; Yen, Fu-Su

2011-01-01

The Bi 2 O 3 -B 2 O 3 -ZnO-SiO 2 (BB35SZ) glass effects on the sintering behavior and microwave magnetic properties of Cu-Bi-Zn co-doped Co 2 Z ferrites were investigated to develop low-temperature-fired ferrites. The glass wetting characteristics on the Co 2 Z ferrite surface, X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscopy and a dilatometer were used to examine the BB35SZ glass effect on Co 2 Z ferrite densification and the chemical reaction between the glass and Co 2 Z ferrites. The results indicate that BB35SZ glass can be used as a sintering aid to reduce the densification temperature of Co 2 Z ferrites from 1300 to 900 o C. 3(Ba 0.9 Bi 0.1 O).2(Co 0.8 Cu 0.2 O).12(Fe 1.975 Zn 0.025 O 3 ) ferrite with 2 wt% BB35SZ glass can be densified below 900 o C, exhibiting an initial permeability of 3.4. This process provides a promising candidate for multilayer chip magnetic devices for microwave applications. - Research highlights: → Bi 2 O 3 -B 2 O 3 -ZnO-SiO 2 glass can effectively wet Co 2 Z ferrites and promote Co 2 Z ferrite densification. → The excess substitution of Bi and Zn (x=0.2) and glass addition enhanced Z phase decomposition into U, W and spinel phases, which resulted in magnetic property degradation. → 3(Ba 0.9 Bi 0.1 O).2(Co 0.8 Cu 0.2 O).12(Fe 1.975 Zn 0.025 O 3 ) ferrite with 2 wt% glass can be densified at below 900 o C and exhibits an initial permeability of 3.4, which provides a promising candidate for multilayer chip magnetic devices for microwave applications.

Microwave assisted sintering of gadolinium doped barium cerate electrolyte for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cells

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kumar, Arumugam Senthil, E-mail: senthu.ramp@gmail.com [Department of Physics, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore, 641 004, Tamilnadu (India); Balaji, Ramamoorthy [Department of Physics, PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore, 641 004, Tamilnadu (India); Jayakumar, Srinivasalu [Department of Physics, PSG Institute of Technology and Applied Research, Coimbatore, 641 062, Tamilnadu (India); Pradeep, Chandran [Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, 600 036, Tamilnadu (India)

2016-10-01

In Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC), electrolyte plays a vital role to increase the energy conversion efficiency. The main hurdle of such electrolyte in fuel cell is its higher operating temperature (1000 °C) which results in design limitation and higher fabrication cost. In order to reduce the operating temperature of SOFC, a suitable electrolyte has been prepared through co-precipitation method followed by microwave sintering of solid ceramic. The calcination temperature for the as-prepared powder was identified using Differential Scanning Calorimetry. The crystal structure of the sample was found to exhibit its orthorhombic perovskite structure. The particle size was determined using High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscope with uniform in shape and size, match with XRD results and confirmed from structural analysis. Thus, the sample prepared via co-precipitation method and the solid ceramic sintered through microwave can be a promising electrolyte for fuel cells operated at intermediate temperature. - Highlights: • To synthesis the composite electrolyte by chemical method and sinter using microwave. • To reduce the operating temperature of electrolyte for high ionic conductivity in SOFC's. • To study the phase purity and to develop nanocomposite at reduced temperature.

Mineralogy and microstructure of sintered lignite coal fly ash

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Marina Ilic; Christopher Cheeseman; Christopher Sollars; Jonathan Knight [Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, Belgrade (Yugoslavia)

2003-02-01

Lignite coal fly ash from the 'Nikola Tesla' power plant in Yugoslavia has been characterised, milled, compacted and sintered to form monolithic ceramic materials. The effect of firing at temperatures between 1130 and 1190{sup o}C on the density, water accessible porosity, mineralogy and microstructure of sintered samples is reported. This class C fly ash has an initial average particle size of 82 {mu}m and contains siliceous glass together with the crystalline phases quartz, anorthite, gehlenite, hematite and mullite. Milling the ash to an average particle size of 5.6 m, compacting and firing at 1170{sup o}C for 1 h produces materials with densities similar to clay-based ceramics that exhibit low water absorption. Sintering reduces the amount of glass, quartz, gehlenite and anhydrite, but increases formation of anorthite, mullite, hematite and cristobalite. SEM confirms the formation of a dense ceramic at 1170{sup o}C and indicates that pyroplastic effects cause pore formation and bloating at 1190{sup o}C. 23 refs., 6 figs., 2 tabs.

Effect of processing conditions on microstructural features in Mn–Si sintered steels

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Oro, Raquel, E-mail: raqueld@chalmers.se [Department of Materials and Manufacturing Technology, Chalmers University of Technology, Rännvägen 2A, SE-41296 Gothenburg (Sweden); Hryha, Eduard, E-mail: hryha@chalmers.se [Department of Materials and Manufacturing Technology, Chalmers University of Technology, Rännvägen 2A, SE-41296 Gothenburg (Sweden); Campos, Mónica, E-mail: campos@ing.uc3m.es [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, IAAB, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Av. Universidad 30, 28911 Leganés, Madrid (Spain); Torralba, José M., E-mail: torralba@ing.uc3m.es [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, IAAB, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Av. Universidad 30, 28911 Leganés, Madrid (Spain); IMDEA Materials Institute, c/Eric Kandel, 2, 28906 Getafe, Madrid (Spain)

2014-09-15

Sintering of steels containing oxidation sensitive elements is possible if such elements are alloyed with others which present lower affinity for oxygen. In this work, a master alloy powder containing Fe–Mn–Si–C, specifically designed to create a liquid phase during sintering, has been used for such purpose. The effect of processing conditions such as sintering temperature and atmosphere was studied with the aim of describing the microstructural evolution as well as the morphology and distribution of oxides in the sintered material, evaluating the potential detrimental effect of such oxides on mechanical properties. Chemical analyses, metallography and fractography studies combined with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses on the fracture surfaces were used to reveal the main mechanism of fracture and their correlation with the chemical composition of the different fracture surfaces. The results indicate that the main mechanism of failure in these steels is brittle fracture in the surrounding of the original master alloy particles due to degradation of grain boundaries by the presence of oxide inclusions. Mn–Si oxide inclusions were observed on intergranular decohesive facets. The use of reducing atmospheres and high sintering temperatures reduces the amount and size of such oxide inclusions. Besides, high heating and cooling rates reduce significantly the final oxygen content in the sintered material. A model for microstructure development and oxide evolution during different stages of sintering is proposed, considering the fact that when the master alloy melts, the liquid formed can dissolve some of the oxides as well as the surface of the surrounding iron base particles. - Highlights: • Oxide distribution in steels containing oxidation-sensitive elements • Mn, Si introduced in a master alloy powder, mixed with a base iron powder • Selective oxidation of Mn and Si on iron grain boundaries • Decohesive fracture caused by degradation of grain

Effect of processing conditions on microstructural features in Mn–Si sintered steels

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Oro, Raquel; Hryha, Eduard; Campos, Mónica; Torralba, José M.

2014-01-01

Sintering of steels containing oxidation sensitive elements is possible if such elements are alloyed with others which present lower affinity for oxygen. In this work, a master alloy powder containing Fe–Mn–Si–C, specifically designed to create a liquid phase during sintering, has been used for such purpose. The effect of processing conditions such as sintering temperature and atmosphere was studied with the aim of describing the microstructural evolution as well as the morphology and distribution of oxides in the sintered material, evaluating the potential detrimental effect of such oxides on mechanical properties. Chemical analyses, metallography and fractography studies combined with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses on the fracture surfaces were used to reveal the main mechanism of fracture and their correlation with the chemical composition of the different fracture surfaces. The results indicate that the main mechanism of failure in these steels is brittle fracture in the surrounding of the original master alloy particles due to degradation of grain boundaries by the presence of oxide inclusions. Mn–Si oxide inclusions were observed on intergranular decohesive facets. The use of reducing atmospheres and high sintering temperatures reduces the amount and size of such oxide inclusions. Besides, high heating and cooling rates reduce significantly the final oxygen content in the sintered material. A model for microstructure development and oxide evolution during different stages of sintering is proposed, considering the fact that when the master alloy melts, the liquid formed can dissolve some of the oxides as well as the surface of the surrounding iron base particles. - Highlights: • Oxide distribution in steels containing oxidation-sensitive elements • Mn, Si introduced in a master alloy powder, mixed with a base iron powder • Selective oxidation of Mn and Si on iron grain boundaries • Decohesive fracture caused by degradation of grain

Microstructural anomalies in a W-Ni alloy liquid phase sintered under microgravity conditions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Liu, Y.; Iacocca, R.G.; Johnson, J.L.; German, R.M.; Kohara, Shiro

1995-01-01

The gravitational role in liquid phase sintering (LPS) is a problem of great interest in both materials science and engineering practice. Gravity-induced microstructural gradients in grain size, grain shape, and solid volume fraction have been well documented in liquid phase sintered tungsten heavy alloys and have been analyzed by a number of theoretical models. However, gravity may have many unknown effects on LPS, which can only be revealed by experiments conducted under microgravity conditions

Transport properties of microwave sintered pure and glass added MgCuZn ferrites

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Madhuri, W., E-mail: madhuriw12@gmail.com [School of Advanced Sciences, VIT University, Vellore 632 014 (India); Penchal Reddy, M.; Kim, Il Gon [Department of Physics, Changwon National University, Changwon 641 773 (Korea, Republic of); Rama Manohar Reddy, N. [Department of Materials Science and Nanotechnology, Yogi Vemana University, Kadapa 516 227 (India); Siva Kumar, K.V. [Ceramic Composites Materials Laboratory, Sri Krishnadevaraya University, Anantapur 515 055 (India); Murthy, V.R.K. [Microwave Laboratory, IIT Madras, Chennai 600 036 (India)

2013-07-01

Highlights: • MgCuZn ferrite was successfully prepared by novel microwave sintering (MS) method. • The sintering temperature was notably reduced from 1150 °C to 950 °C for MS. • Temperature dependence of DC conductivity and AC conductivity are studied. • 1 wt% PBS glass added MS MgCuZn ferrite samples are suitable for core materials in multilayer chip inductors (MLCI). -- Abstract: A series of pure stoichiometric and 1 wt% lead borosilicate (PBS) glass added MgCuZn ferrite with the general formula Mg{sub 0.5}Cu{sub x}Zn{sub 0.5−x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} with x = 0.05, 0.1, 0.15, 0.2, 0.25 and 0.3 were synthesized by microwave sintering technique. Single phase spinel structure is exhibited by the XRD patterns of these ferrites. DC and AC conductivity were investigated as a function of composition, temperature and frequency. DC conductivities were also estimated using the impedance spectroscopy analysis of Cole–Cole plots. The DC conductivities thus obtained are in good agreement with the experimental results. All the investigated samples exhibited two regions of conductivity one in the low temperature and the second in the high temperature region. It is observed that PBS glass added samples have lower conductivities than pure samples. Due to their lower conductivities and sintering temperatures the 1 wt% PBS glass added samples are suitable for multilayer chip inductor (MLCI) and high definition TV deflection yoke material application.

Hexagonal OsB{sub 2}: Sintering, microstructure and mechanical properties

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Xie, Zhilin [Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32816 (United States); Lugovy, Mykola [Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32816 (United States); Institute for Problems of Materials Science, 3 Krzhizhanivskii Str., Kyiv 03142 (Ukraine); Orlovskaya, Nina, E-mail: Nina.Orlovskaya@ucf.edu [Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32816 (United States); Graule, Thomas; Kuebler, Jakob [Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Laboratory for High Performance Ceramics, CH-8600 Dubendorf (Switzerland); Mueller, Martin [Laboratory of Mechanical Metallurgy, EPFL, CH-1015 Lausanne (Switzerland); Gao, Huili [Department of Mechanical Engineering, Texas A& M University, College Station, TX 77843 (United States); Radovic, Miladin [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Texas A& M University, College Station, TX 77843 (United States); Cullen, David A. [Materials Science & Technology Division, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, TN 37831 (United States)

2015-06-15

Highlights: • ReB{sub 2}-type hexagonal OsB{sub 2} powder has been densified by spark plasma sintering. • The sintered OsB{sub 2} contains ∼80 wt.% hexagonal and ∼20 wt.% orthorhombic phases. • The average grain size of the sintered OsB{sub 2} sample was 0.56 ± 0.26 μm. • H = 31 ± 9 GPa and E = 574 ± 112 GPa measured by nanoindentation. - Abstract: The metastable high pressure ReB{sub 2}-type hexagonal OsB{sub 2} bulk ceramics was produced by spark plasma sintering. The phase composition, microstructure, and mechanical behavior of the sintered OsB{sub 2} were studied by X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, TEM, SEM, EDS, and nanoindentation. The produced ceramics was rather porous and contained a mixture of hexagonal (∼80 wt.%) and orthorhombic (∼20 wt.%) phases as identified by X-ray diffraction and EBSD analysis. Two boron-rich phases, which do not contain Os, were also identified by TEM and SEM/EDS analysis. Nanoindentation measurements yielded a hardness of 31 ± 9 GPa and Young’s modulus of 574 ± 112 GPa, indicating that the material is rather hard and very stiff; however, it is very prone to crack formation and propagation, which is indicative of a very brittle nature of this material. Improvements in the sintering regime are required in order to produce dense, homogeneous and single phase hexagonal OsB{sub 2} bulk ceramics.

Morphological analysis and modelling of sintering and of sintered materials

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jernot, Jean-Paul

1982-01-01

This research thesis addresses the study of solid phase sintering of metallic powders, and aims at describing as precisely as possible the different involved matter transport mechanisms, first by using a thermodynamic approach to sintering. Sintering diagrams are also used to determine prevailing mechanisms. The microstructure of sintered materials has been studied by using image quantitative analysis, thus by using a morphological approach to sintering. Morphological parameters allow, on the one hand, the evolution of powders during sintering to be followed, and, on the other hand, sintered products to be correctly characterised. Moreover, the author reports the study of the evolution of some physical properties of sintered materials with respect to their microstructure parameters. This leads to the development of a modelling of the behaviour of these materials [fr

Microstructure, mechanical properties, bio-corrosion properties and antibacterial properties of Ti-Ag sintered alloys.

Science.gov (United States)

Chen, Mian; Zhang, Erlin; Zhang, Lan

2016-05-01

In this research, Ag element was selected as an antibacterial agent to develop an antibacterial Ti-Ag alloy by a powder metallurgy. The microstructure, phase constitution, mechanical properties, corrosion resistance and antibacterial properties of the Ti-Ag sintered alloys have been systematically studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), compressive test, electrochemical measurements and antibacterial test. The effects of the Ag powder size and the Ag content on the antibacterial property and mechanical property as well as the anticorrosion property have been investigated. The microstructure results have shown that Ti-Ag phase, residual pure Ag and Ti were the mainly phases in Ti-Ag(S75) sintered alloy while Ti2Ag was synthesized in Ti-Ag(S10) sintered alloy. The mechanical test indicated that Ti-Ag sintered alloy showed a much higher hardness and the compressive yield strength than cp-Ti but the mechanical properties were slightly reduced with the increase of Ag content. Electrochemical results showed that Ag powder size had a significant effect on the corrosion resistance of Ti-Ag sintered alloy. Ag content increased the corrosion resistance in a dose dependent way under a homogeneous microstructure. Antibacterial tests have demonstrated that antibacterial Ti-Ag alloy was successfully prepared. It was also shown that the Ag powder particle size and the Ag content influenced the antibacterial activity seriously. The reduction in the Ag powder size was benefit to the improvement in the antibacterial property and the Ag content has to be at least 3wt.% in order to obtain a strong and stable antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. The bacterial mechanism was thought to be related to the Ti2Ag and its distribution. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Low-temperature sintering and microwave dielectric properties of Al2TeO6–TeO2 ceramics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kagomiya, Isao; Kodama, Yuichiro; Shimizu, Yukihiro; Kakimoto, Ken-ichi; Ohsato, Hitoshi; Miyauchi, Yasuharu

2015-01-01

Highlights: • This is the first study of dielectric properties of Al 2 TeO 6 –TeO 2 sintered at 900 °C. • The sintering at 900 °C contributed to densification, but it causes TeO 2 evaporation. • The annealing at 750 °C was effective for the further densification. • The both ε r and Q · f in the Al 2 TeO 6 –TeO 2 were improved with the annealing. - Abstract: We propose Al 2 TeO 6 –TeO 2 ceramics as a candidate for use as low-temperature co-fired ceramics (LTCC). We investigated microwave dielectric properties and low-temperature sintering conditions for Al 2 TeO 6 –TeO 2 ceramics. The calcined Al 2 TeO 6 powders were sintered at 900 °C for 2–10 h with 30–50 wt% additive TeO 2 . X-ray powder diffraction patterns showed that the sintered samples were Al 2 TeO 6 –TeO 2 composite with no other phase. The apparent density was improved with the additive TeO 2 content of up to 45 wt%. The dielectric constant (ε r ) increased by adding TeO 2 content from 35 to 45 wt%, although the quality factor (Q · f) decreased. During sintering at 900 °C, the ε r of the Al 2 TeO 6 –TeO 2 decreased slightly, whereas the Q · f increased gradually. The observed microstructures showed that the longer sintering time makes fewer pores in Al 2 TeO 6 –TeO 2 ceramics. Sintering at 900 °C for a long time contributes to densification, but it simultaneously causes TeO 2 evaporation. To prevent TeO 2 evaporation, we investigated the effects of annealing at 750 °C after sintering at 900 °C. Apparent densities or ε r for the annealed samples were higher than those of the non-annealed samples. The Q · f improved with increasing annealing duration time, suggesting that sintering proceeded well during annealing with slower TeO 2 evaporation at 750 °C. The results show that annealing at 750 °C is effective to facilitate sintering and to control TeO 2 evaporation

The role of pores and microstructural heterogeneity on the tooth root fatigue strength of sintered spur gears

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Benedetti Matteo

2018-01-01

Full Text Available The automotive industry employs a considerable amount of sintered parts, mainly as transmission and engine components. Gears are the parts that mostly benefit, in terms of cost saving, from the near net shape P/M technology. However, the porosity along with the heterogeneous microstructure can detrimentally affect the mechanical behaviour, especially the fatigue strength. The possibility of increasing sintered density up to 90% and more, the use of high strength alloys, as well as post sintering treatments have been extensively investigated obtaining consistent increases in the fatigue strength. The present study focuses on the effects of porosity and microstructure on tooth root bending fatigue of small module spur gears. The aim is to investigate the synergistic contribution of pore morphology and microstructure heterogeneity to the initiation of fatigue cracks and to the following crack paths. High density parts produced by high strength pre-alloyed powders were studied. Part of the specimens was case-hardened to obtain a martensitic/bainitic microstructure in the surface layer. Bending fatigue tests up to a fatigue endurance of three million cycles were performed. A careful fractographic analysis was conducted. The obtained results were discussed using the fracture mechanics approach of Murakami, considering the pores as pre-existing defects, whose propagation strongly depends on the microstructural heterogeneity.

Microstructural designs of spark-plasma sintered silicon carbide ceramic scaffolds

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Roman-Manso, B.; Pablos, A. de; Belmonte, M.; Osendi, M. I.; Miranzo, P.

2014-04-01

Concentrated ceramic inks based on (SiC) powders, with different amounts of Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} as sintering aids, are developed for the adequate production of SiC scaffolds, with different patterned morphologies, by the Robocasting technique. The densification of the as-produced 3D structures, previously heat treated in air at 600 degree centigrade for the organics burn-out, is achieved with a Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) furnace. The effects of the amount of sintering additives (7 - 20 wt. %) and the size of the SiC powders (50 nm and 0.5 {mu}m) on the processing of the inks, microstructure, hardness and elastic modulus of the sintered scaffolds, are studied. The use of nano-sized (SiC) powders significantly restricts the attainable maximum solids volume fraction of the ink (0.32 compared to 0.44 of the submicron-sized powders-based ink), involving a much larger porosity of the green ceramic bodies. Furthermore, reduced amounts of additives improve the mechanical properties of the ceramic skeleton; particularly, the stiffness. The grain size and specific surface area of the starting powders, the ink solids content, green porosity, amount of sintering additives and SPS temperatures are the main parameters to be taken into account for the production of these SiC cellular ceramics. (Author)

Microstructure and thermal properties of Cu-SiC composite materials depending on the sintering technique

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Chmielewski Marcin

2017-01-01

Full Text Available The presented paper investigates the relationship between the microstructure and thermal properties of copper-silicon carbide composites obtained through hot pressing (HP and spark plasma sintering (SPS techniques. The microstructural analysis showed a better densification in the case of composites sintered in the SPS process. TEM investigations revealed the presence of silicon in the area of metallic matrix in the region close to metal-ceramic boundary. It is the product of silicon dissolving process in copper occurring at an elevated temperature. The Cu-SiC interface is significantly defected in composites obtained through the hot pressing method, which has a major influence on the thermal conductivity of materials.

Studies of ZrO{sub 2}-Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} ceramics properties sintered in conventional and microwave oven; Estudos das propriedades de ceramicas de ZrO{sub 2}-Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} sinterizadas em forno convencional de microondas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gelfuso, M V; Capistrano, D; Thomazini, D [Universidade de Fortaleza (UNIFOR), CE (Brazil); Grzebielucka, E C; Chinelatto, A L; Chinelatto, A S.A. [Universidade Estadual de Ponta Grossa (DEMa/UFPG), PR (Brazil). Dept. de Engenharia de Materiais

2009-07-01

The ceramic materials processing with nano grain size has developed materials with new properties or improves some of its existing properties. To obtain ceramics with nano grain size, besides that to obtaining nanometric powders, a major goal is to keep the grains size after sintering. Contributing in this line of research, this study aimed to sinter zirconia-Yttria powders through two processes: conventional and microwave sintering. Zirconia stabilized with Yttria powders were obtained by chemical route based on Pechini method. Cylindrical samples were sintered between 1300 to 1500 deg C between 10 and 40 minutes. The samples were characterized by Xray diffraction, Scanning Electron Microscopy and apparent density. It was observed that the final microstructure is influenced by both methods of sintering as the curve of firing used. (author)

Effects of sintering temperature on the microstructural evolution and wear behavior of WCp reinforced Ni-based coatings

Science.gov (United States)

Chen, Chuan-hui; Bai, Yang; Ye, Xu-chu

2014-12-01

This article focuses on the microstructural evolution and wear behavior of 50wt%WC reinforced Ni-based composites prepared onto 304 stainless steel substrates by vacuum sintering at different sintering temperatures. The microstructure and chemical composition of the coatings were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), differential thermal analysis (DTA), scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) equipped with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS). The wear resistance of the coatings was tested by thrust washer testing. The mechanisms of the decomposition, dissolution, and precipitation of primary carbides, and their influences on the wear resistance have been discussed. The results indicate that the coating sintered at 1175°C is composed of fine WC particles, coarse M6C (M=Ni, Fe, Co, etc.) carbides, and discrete borides dispersed in solid solution. Upon increasing the sintering temperature to 1225°C, the microstructure reveals few incompletely dissolved WC particles trapped in larger M6C, Cr-rich lamellar M23C6, and M3C2 in the austenite matrix. M23C6 and M3C2 precipitates are formed in both the γ/M6C grain boundary and the matrix. These large-sized and lamellar brittle phases tend to weaken the wear resistance of the composite coatings. The wear behavior is controlled simultaneously by both abrasive wear and adhesive wear. Among them, abrasive wear plays a major role in the wear process of the coating sintered at 1175°C, while the effect of adhesive wear is predominant in the coating sintered at 1225°C.

Microwave Combustion and Sintering Without Isostatic Pressure. Topical Report August 1, 1995 - October 30, 1996

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ebadian, M.A.; Monroe, N.D.H.

1998-01-01

This investigation involves a study of the influence of key processing parameters on the heating of materials using microwave energy. Selective and localized heating characteristics of microwaves will be utilized in the sintering of ceramics without hydrostatic pressure. In addition, combustion synthesis will be studied for the production of powders, carbides, and nitrides by combining two or more solids or a solid and a gas to form new materials. The insight gained from the interaction of microwaves with various materials will be utilized in the mobilization and subsequent redeposition of uranium

Experimental measurements of the thermal conductivity of ash deposits: Part 2. Effects of sintering and deposit microstructure

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

A. L. Robinson; S. G. Buckley; N. Yang; L. L. Baxter

2000-04-01

The authors report results from an experimental study that examines the influence of sintering and microstructure on ash deposit thermal conductivity. The measurements are made using a technique developed to make in situ, time-resolved measurements of the effective thermal conductivity of ash deposits formed under conditions that closely replicate those found in the convective pass of a commercial boiler. The technique is designed to minimize the disturbance of the natural deposit microstructure. The initial stages of sintering and densification are accompanied by an increase in deposit thermal conductivity. Subsequent sintering continues to densify the deposit, but has little effect on deposit thermal conductivity. SEM analyses indicates that sintering creates a layered deposit structure with a relatively unsintered innermost layer. They hypothesize that this unsintered layer largely determines the overall deposit thermal conductivity. A theoretical model that treats a deposit as a two-layered material predicts the observed trends in thermal conductivity.

Effect of the sintering method on microstructure and thermal and mechanical properties of zirconium oxophosphate ceramics Zr2O(PO4)2

Science.gov (United States)

Bregiroux, Damien; Cedelle, Julie; Ranc, Isabelle; Barreteau, Céline; Mata Osoro, Gustavo; Wallez, Gilles

2017-12-01

Due to an ultra-low thermal expansion, Zr2O(PO4)2 could find many applications as a thermal shock resistant material. To this end, ceramic processing is a key step in order to reach best properties. In this work, Zr2O(PO4)2 was sintered by conventional sintering and by the spark plasma sintering technique (SPS) with and without additive. Samples made by conventional sintering with ZnO as sintering aid have a maximum relative density of around 92%. Microstructure is composed of large grains and microcracks can be observed. When doped with 5 wt. % of MgO, samples can be densified by SPS up to 99.6% of the relative density and the grain size maintained between 0.5 and 1.5 μm. Thermal conductivity and Vickers microhardness were investigated as a function of the microstructure. Best values were obtained for the ceramic doped with 5 wt.% MgO and sintered by SPS, thanks to a fine microstructure and a small amount of residual microcracks.

Some new aspects of microstructural development during sintering of silicon nitride

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Feuer, H.; Woetting, G.; Gugel, E.

1994-01-01

The mechanical properties of silicon nitride ceramics strongly depend on their microstructure. However, there is still a lively discussion about the parameters controlling the microstructural development. The current research was stimulated by the observation that a bimodal grain-size distribution in dense silicon nitride has a very beneficial effect on the mechanical properties, especially on the fracture toughness. This paper is focused on the relationship between the α-β-transformation and the densification of silicon nitride powders with different characteristics and sintering additives. Effects of β-grains originally present in the silicon nitride powder, of added β-silicon nitride seeds and of β-crystals formed by the α/β-transformation on the resulting microstructure and on the properties are discussed. The results are summarised in a model describing prerequisites and processing conditions, which are necessary to achieve a bimodal microstructure, i. e. a self-reinforced silicon nitride ceramic. (orig.)

Microstructure, mechanical properties, bio-corrosion properties and antibacterial properties of Ti–Ag sintered alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Chen, Mian [Key Lab. for Anisotropy and Texture of Materials, Education Ministry of China, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819 (China); Zhang, Erlin, E-mail: zhangel@atm.neu.edu.cn [Key Lab. for Anisotropy and Texture of Materials, Education Ministry of China, Northeastern University, Shenyang 110819 (China); Zhang, Lan [State Key Laboratory for Mechanical Behavior of Materials, Xi' an Jiaotong University, Xi' an 710049 (China)

2016-05-01

In this research, Ag element was selected as an antibacterial agent to develop an antibacterial Ti–Ag alloy by a powder metallurgy. The microstructure, phase constitution, mechanical properties, corrosion resistance and antibacterial properties of the Ti–Ag sintered alloys have been systematically studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), compressive test, electrochemical measurements and antibacterial test. The effects of the Ag powder size and the Ag content on the antibacterial property and mechanical property as well as the anticorrosion property have been investigated. The microstructure results have shown that Ti–Ag phase, residual pure Ag and Ti were the mainly phases in Ti–Ag(S75) sintered alloy while Ti{sub 2}Ag was synthesized in Ti–Ag(S10) sintered alloy. The mechanical test indicated that Ti–Ag sintered alloy showed a much higher hardness and the compressive yield strength than cp-Ti but the mechanical properties were slightly reduced with the increase of Ag content. Electrochemical results showed that Ag powder size had a significant effect on the corrosion resistance of Ti–Ag sintered alloy. Ag content increased the corrosion resistance in a dose dependent way under a homogeneous microstructure. Antibacterial tests have demonstrated that antibacterial Ti–Ag alloy was successfully prepared. It was also shown that the Ag powder particle size and the Ag content influenced the antibacterial activity seriously. The reduction in the Ag powder size was benefit to the improvement in the antibacterial property and the Ag content has to be at least 3 wt.% in order to obtain a strong and stable antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. The bacterial mechanism was thought to be related to the Ti{sub 2}Ag and its distribution. - Highlights: • Ti–Ag alloy with up to 99% antibacterial rate was developed by powder metallurgy. • The effects of the Ag powder size and the Ag content on the

The Influence of Spark Plasma Sintering Temperature on the Microstructure and the Thermoelectric Properties of Al, Ga dually-doped ZnO

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Han, Li; Le, Thanh Hung; Van Nong, Ngo

2012-01-01

Al, Ga dually-doped ZnO was prepared by spark plasma sintering with different sintering temperatures. The microstructural evolution and thermoelectric properties of the samples were investigated in detail. The samples with a sintering temperature above 1223K obtained higher relative densities...

Qualitative relations between the kinetics of sintering in hydrogen and the observed microstructures of uranium dioxide

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Francois, B.; Delmas, R.; Caillat, F.; Lacombe, P.

1975-01-01

The microscopic study of uranium dioxide sintered in hydrogen, together with density measurements, shows on the one hand that the large scale appearance of pores trapped at the grain boundaries in the course of sintering has the effect of practically stopping densification, and on the other hand that this particular microstructure is stable over a wide range of time and temperature. (author)

Microstructure evolution of ceramics during sintering: an analysis based on local image analysis measurements in the vicinity of controlled defects

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Girard, E.; Chaix, J.M.; Carry, C.; Valdivieso, F.; Goeuriot, P.; Lechelle, J.

2005-01-01

UO 2 powder containing 5% of almost spherical defects of controlled size have been sintered. The defects were prepared with the same powder by pre-sintering either the natural powder aggregates or partially milled pressed powder. Systematic image analysis was performed to get the local microstructure features inside the defects and in the matrix outside the defects. The set of results is used here as a sintering database with three identified sintering 'constraint' parameters (compaction level C 0 , radial distance r to the defect edge, and sintering 'history' H) and three microstructure 'responses' (pore volume fraction V V P , pore mean diameter D P , and grain mean diameter D G ). Data analysis in the 3D responses space shows that these variables are not independent but define a unique surface, on which each point corresponds to a set of constraints (C 0 ,r,H). (authors)

Microstructure and thermoelectric properties of β-FeSi2 ceramics fabricated by hot-pressing and spark plasma sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Qu Xiurong; Lue Shuchen; Hu Jianmin; Meng Qingyu

2011-01-01

Highlights: → With increasing hot-pressing (HP) temperature, the thermoelectric figure of merit of β-FeSi 2 ceramics is improved slightly. → The grain size of the sample sintered by the spark plasma sintering (SPS) process is smaller than that by the HP process. → The SPS sample shows excellent thermoelectric performance attributed to low thermal conductivity. - Abstract: The microstructure and thermoelectric properties of β-FeSi 2 ceramics by hot pressing (HP) and spark plasma sintering (SPS) are investigated. With increasing hot-pressing temperature, the density, electronic conductivity and thermal conductivity of the samples increase significantly, the thermoelectric figure of merit is improved slightly. The microstructure study indicates that the sizes of the β-FeSi 2 and ε-FeSi phases in the sample sintered by the SPS process are smaller than that by the HP process. The SPS sample shows excellent thermoelectric performance due to the low thermal conductivity.

Freeze drying vs microwave drying–methods for synthesis of sinteractive thoria powders

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Annie, D.; Chandramouli, V. [Materials Chemistry Division, Chemistry Group, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, 602103 (India); Anthonysamy, S., E-mail: sas@igcar.gov.in [Materials Chemistry Division, Chemistry Group, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, 602103 (India); Ghosh, Chanchal; Divakar, R. [Materials Synthesis and Structural Characterization Division, Materials and Metallurgy Group, Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research, Kalpakkam, 602103 (India)

2017-02-15

Thoria powders were synthesized by oxalate precipitation from an aqueous solution of the nitrate. The filtered precipitates were freeze dried or microwave dried before being calcined at 1073 K. The thoria powders obtained were characterized for crystallite size, specific surface area, bulk density, particle size distribution and residual carbon. Microstructure of the product was studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Sinterability of the synthesized powders was studied by measuring the density of the sintered compacts. Powders that can be consolidated and sintered to densities ∼96% theoretical density (TD) at 1773 K were obtained.

The development of microstructure during hydrogenation–disproportionation–desorption–recombination treatment of sintered neodymium-iron-boron-type magnets

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sheridan, R.S.; Harris, I.R.; Walton, A.

2016-01-01

The hydrogen absorption and desorption characteristics of the hydrogenation disproportionation desorption and recombination (HDDR) process on scrap sintered neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) type magnets have been investigated. At each stage of the process, the microstructural changes have been studied using high resolution scanning electron microscopy. It was found that the disproportionation reaction initiates at grain boundaries and triple points and then propagates towards the centre of the matrix grains. This process was accelerated at particle surfaces and at free surfaces produced by any cracks in the powder particles. However, the recombination reaction appeared to initiate randomly throughout the particles with no apparent preference for particle surfaces or internal cracks. During the hydrogenation of the grain boundaries and triple junctions, the disproportionation reaction was, however, affected by the much higher oxygen content of the sintered NdFeB compared with that of the as-cast NdFeB alloys. Throughout the entire HDDR reaction the oxidised triple junctions (from the sintered structure) remained unreacted and hence, remained in their original form in the fine recombined microstructure. This resulted in a very significant reduction in the proportion of cavitation in the final microstructure and this could lend to improved consolidation in the recycled magnets. - Highlights: • Disproportionation reaction initiates at grain boundaries and triple points. • Disproportionation then propagates towards the centre of the matrix grains. • Disproportionation was affected by the high oxygen content of sintered NdFeB. • Oxidised triple points remain unreacted in original form in final HDDR structure. • Significant reduction in the proportion of cavitation in the final microstructure.

The development of microstructure during hydrogenation–disproportionation–desorption–recombination treatment of sintered neodymium-iron-boron-type magnets

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sheridan, R.S.; Harris, I.R.; Walton, A., E-mail: a.walton@bham.ac.uk

2016-03-01

The hydrogen absorption and desorption characteristics of the hydrogenation disproportionation desorption and recombination (HDDR) process on scrap sintered neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) type magnets have been investigated. At each stage of the process, the microstructural changes have been studied using high resolution scanning electron microscopy. It was found that the disproportionation reaction initiates at grain boundaries and triple points and then propagates towards the centre of the matrix grains. This process was accelerated at particle surfaces and at free surfaces produced by any cracks in the powder particles. However, the recombination reaction appeared to initiate randomly throughout the particles with no apparent preference for particle surfaces or internal cracks. During the hydrogenation of the grain boundaries and triple junctions, the disproportionation reaction was, however, affected by the much higher oxygen content of the sintered NdFeB compared with that of the as-cast NdFeB alloys. Throughout the entire HDDR reaction the oxidised triple junctions (from the sintered structure) remained unreacted and hence, remained in their original form in the fine recombined microstructure. This resulted in a very significant reduction in the proportion of cavitation in the final microstructure and this could lend to improved consolidation in the recycled magnets. - Highlights: • Disproportionation reaction initiates at grain boundaries and triple points. • Disproportionation then propagates towards the centre of the matrix grains. • Disproportionation was affected by the high oxygen content of sintered NdFeB. • Oxidised triple points remain unreacted in original form in final HDDR structure. • Significant reduction in the proportion of cavitation in the final microstructure.

Microstructure and properties of sintered silicon carbides fabricated by different methods

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maruyama, Tadashi; Kitamura, Hideya; Iseki, Takayoshi

1986-01-01

Studies were made of effects of fabrication methods on the properties and microstructure of sintered silicon carbides. The specimens used in this investigation were three kinds of commercially available SiC bodies which were fabricated by reaction bonding, pressureless sintering and hot-pressing. The hot-pressed SiC contained a small amount of BeO. Measurements were carried out on density, the polytype by X-ray diffraction method and 4-point bend strength. Microstructural observation was also carried out using an optical microscope, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and a transmission electron microscope (TEM). The results of density measurement showed that the open porosities of three specimens were negligibly small and that the density of the hot pressed SiC had nearly the theoretical density. The measurement of 4-point bend strength indicated that the reaction bonded SiC had the highest value and the hot-pressed SiC the lowest. The analysis of the polytype indicated that all the specimens consisted mainly of α-SiC of 6 H type. In the reaction bonded SiC, about 11 % of 3 C type (β-SiC) and 9 % of free Si were recognized. The average grain diameter and fracture mode of each specimen were determined from observation with an optical microscope and SEM. In the hot-pressed SiC, the fracture occurred mainly at grain boundaries, whereas it occurred mostly in grains in the reaction bonded and pressureless sintered SiC. A lot of stacking faults were observed in all the specimens with a TEM. In addition, small closed pores were often recognized in the pressureless sintered SiC. In the hot-pressed SiC, a contrast originated from strain field within grains was observed, and dislocations near grain boundaries were a characteristic feature of this material. Small short partial dislocations accompanied by stacking fault were often observed in the reaction bonded SiC. (author)

Investigation of microstructural evolution and electrical properties for Ni-Sn transient liquid-phase sintering bonding

Science.gov (United States)

Feng, Hong-Liang; Huang, Ji-Hua; Yang, Jian; Zhou, Shao-Kun; Zhang, Rong; Wang, Yue; Chen, Shu-Hai

2017-11-01

Ni/Ni-Sn/Ni sandwiched simulated package structures were successfully bonded under low temperature and low pressure by Ni-Sn transient liquid-phase sintering bonding. The results show that, after isothermally holding for 240 min at 300 °C and 180 min at 340 °C, Sn was completely transformed into Ni3Sn4 intermetallic compounds. When the Ni3Sn4 phases around Ni particles were pressed together, the porosity of the bonding layer increased, which obviously differed from the normal sintering densification process. With further analysis of this phenomenon, it was found that large volume shrinkage (14.94% at 340 °C) occurred when Ni reacted with Sn to form Ni3Sn4, which caused void formation. A mechanistic model of the microstructural evolution in the bonding layer was proposed. Meanwhile, the resistivity of the bonding layer was measured and analyzed by using the four-probe method; the microstructural evolution was well reflected by the resistivity of the bonding layer. The relationship between the resistivity and microstructure was also discussed in detail.[Figure not available: see fulltext.

Effect of microwave-assisted sintering on dielectric properties of CaCu{sub 3}Ti{sub 4}O{sub 12} ceramic

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rani, Suman, E-mail: sumanranigju@gmail.com; Ahlawat, Neetu; Punia, R.; Kundu, R. S. [Department of Applied Physics, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science & Technology, Hissar 125001, Haryana (India); Ahlawat, N. [Matu Ram Institute of Engineering and Management, Rohtak (India)

2016-05-23

In this present work, CaCu{sub 3}Ti{sub 4}O{sub 12} (CCTO) was synthesized by conventional solid-state reaction technique. The synthesis process was carried out in two phases; by conventional process (calcination and sintering at 1080°C for 10 hours) and phase II involves the micro assisted pre sintering of conventionally calcined CCTO for very short soaking time of 30 min at 1080°C in a microwave furnace followed by sintering at 1080°C for 10 hours in conventional furnace. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns confirmed the formation of single phase ceramic. Dielectric properties were studied over the frequency range from 50Hz -5MHz at temperatures (273K-343K). It was observed that pre- microwave sintering enhance the dielectric constant values from 10900 to 11893 and respectively reduces the dielectric loss values from 0.49 to 0.34 at room temperature(1 KHz). CCTO ceramics which are found desirable for many technological applications. The effect is more pronounced at low frequencies of applied electric field.

Microstructure and properties of gravity sintered 316l stainless steel powder with nickel boride addition

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Božić Dušan

2016-01-01

Full Text Available The present work demonstrates a procedure for synthesis of stainless steel powder by gravity sintering method. As an additive to the basic powder, NiB powder was added in the amount of 0.2 - 1.0 wt.%. Gravity sintering was done in vacuum, at the temperatures of 1100°C-1250°C, in the course of 3 - 60 min, using ceramic mould. Structural characterization was conducted by XRD, and microstructural analysis by optical and scanning electron microscope (SEM. Mechanical properties were investigated by tensile tests with steel rings. Density and permeability were determined by standard techniques for porous samples. Gravity sintered stainless steel with NiB addition had more superior mechanical and physico-chemical properties compared to stainless steel obtained by standard powder metallurgy procedures - pressing and sintering. [Projekat Ministarstva nauke Republike Srbije, br. 172005

Comparative microstructure study of oil palm fruit bunch fibre, mesocarp and kernels after microwave pre-treatment

Science.gov (United States)

Chang, Jessie S. L.; Chan, Y. S.; Law, M. C.; Leo, C. P.

2017-07-01

The implementation of microwave technology in palm oil processing offers numerous advantages; besides elimination of polluted palm oil mill effluent, it also reduces energy consumption, processing time and space. However, microwave exposure could damage a material’s microstructure which affected the quality of fruit that can be related to its physical structure including the texture and appearance. In this work, empty fruit bunches, mesocarp and kernel was microwave dried and their respective microstructures were examined. The microwave pretreatments were conducted at 100W and 200W and the microstructure investigation of both treated and untreated samples were evaluated using scanning electron microscope. The micrographs demonstrated that microwave does not significantly influence kernel and mesocarp but noticeable change was found on the empty fruit bunches where the sizes of the granular starch were reduced and a small portion of the silica bodies were disrupted. From the experimental data, the microwave irradiation was shown to be efficiently applied on empty fruit bunches followed by mesocarp and kernel as significant weight loss and size reduction was observed after the microwave treatments. The current work showed that microwave treatment did not change the physical surfaces of samples but sample shrinkage is observed.

Development of a multi-grid FDTD code for three-dimensional simulation of large microwave sintering experiments

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

White, M.J.; Iskander, M.F. [Univ. of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (United States). Electrical Engineering Dept.; Kimrey, H.D. [Oak Ridge National Lab., TN (United States)

1996-12-31

The Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) code available at the University of Utah has been used to simulate sintering of ceramics in single and multimode cavities, and many useful results have been reported in literature. More detailed and accurate results, specifically around and including the ceramic sample, are often desired to help evaluate the adequacy of the heating procedure. In electrically large multimode cavities, however, computer memory requirements limit the number of the mathematical cells, and the desired resolution is impractical to achieve due to limited computer resources. Therefore, an FDTD algorithm which incorporates multiple-grid regions with variable-grid sizes is required to adequately perform the desired simulations. In this paper the authors describe the development of a three-dimensional multi-grid FDTD code to help focus a large number of cells around the desired region. Test geometries were solved using a uniform-grid and the developed multi-grid code to help validate the results from the developed code. Results from these comparisons, as well as the results of comparisons between the developed FDTD code and other available variable-grid codes are presented. In addition, results from the simulation of realistic microwave sintering experiments showed improved resolution in critical sites inside the three-dimensional sintering cavity. With the validation of the FDTD code, simulations were performed for electrically large, multimode, microwave sintering cavities to fully demonstrate the advantages of the developed multi-grid FDTD code.

Objective Characterization of Snow Microstructure for Microwave Emission Modeling

Science.gov (United States)

Durand, Michael; Kim, Edward J.; Molotch, Noah P.; Margulis, Steven A.; Courville, Zoe; Malzler, Christian

2012-01-01

Passive microwave (PM) measurements are sensitive to the presence and quantity of snow, a fact that has long been used to monitor snowcover from space. In order to estimate total snow water equivalent (SWE) within PM footprints (on the order of approx 100 sq km), it is prerequisite to understand snow microwave emission at the point scale and how microwave radiation integrates spatially; the former is the topic of this paper. Snow microstructure is one of the fundamental controls on the propagation of microwave radiation through snow. Our goal in this study is to evaluate the prospects for driving the Microwave Emission Model of Layered Snowpacks with objective measurements of snow specific surface area to reproduce measured brightness temperatures when forced with objective measurements of snow specific surface area (S). This eliminates the need to treat the grain size as a free-fit parameter.

Synthesis and characterization of NiO-YSZ-CeO_2 composites with microwave-assisted hydrothermal treatment

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pinheiro, Lucas Batochi

2013-01-01

In the present work, it was evaluated the effects of a microwave-assisted hydrothermal (MWH) treatment on structural, thermal and electrical properties of NiO-YSZ- CeO_2 composites synthesized by hydroxide coprecipitation method. Simultaneous thermogravimetry and differential thermal analysis (TG/DTA) in conjunction with x-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements showed that MWH treatment contributed to enhanced nickel hydroxide crystallization. The linear shrinkage of the ceramic compacts was observed by thermomechanical analysis (TMA) and the results indicated a higher sinterability for the samples MWH-treated. The compacts were sintered in a conventional resistive and in a microwave furnace. This sintered compacts had their microstructure analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electrical properties investigated by impedance spectroscopy (IS). The SEM images showed phase homogeneity and sub-micrometric grains with irregular shapes. The IS data revealed that the MWH-treated samples have a conductivity increase for temperatures above 500 deg C regardless the sintering process. (author)

Microstructural Evolution during Pressureless Sintering of Blended Elemental Ti-Al-V-Fe Titanium Alloys from Fine Hydrogenated-Dehydrogenated Titanium Powder

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Changzhou Yu

2017-07-01

Full Text Available A comprehensive study was conducted on microstructural evolution of sintered Ti-Al-V-Fe titanium alloys utilizing very fine hydrogenation-dehydrogenation (HDH titanium powder with a median particle size of 8.84 μm. Both micropores (5–15 μm and macropores (50–200 μm were identified in sintered titanium alloys. Spherical micropores were observed in Ti-6Al-4V sintered with fine Ti at the lowest temperature of 1150 °C. The addition of iron can help reduce microporosity and improve microstructural and compositional homogenization. A theoretical calculation of evaporation based on the Miedema model and Langmuir equation indicates that the evaporation of aluminum could be responsible for the formation of the macropores. Although reasonable densification was achieved at low sintering temperatures (93–96% relative density the samples had poor mechanical properties due mainly to the presence of the macroporosity and the high inherent oxygen content in the as-received fine powders.

[Effect of repeated sintering and variations in thickness on the color and microstructure of dental lithium disilicate-based glass ceramic veneers].

Science.gov (United States)

Cui, Huang; Jia, Yu; Shaofeng, Meng; Biyun, Gao

2017-08-01

Objective The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of repeated sintering and variation in thickness on the color and microstructure of dental lithium disilicate-based glass ceramic veneers. Methods A total of 24 computer aided design and computer aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) veneers was fabricated using the IPS e.max-CAD LS2 and then randomly divided into four groups (S0, S1, S2, S3; n=6). Each group was sintered 0, 1, 2, 3 times individually according to the manufacturer's recommendation. The color parameters (L, C, H, a, b values) of all the specimens were measured by a Vita easyshade dental colorimeter. The results were statistically analyzed using the SAS 9.1.3 software for MANOVA and LSD. Subsequently, the microstructures of the intersecting surfaces of the specimens were observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results After repeated sintering, the L value significantly decreased (P<0.05). For the C and b values, statistical differences were observed among the groups except between S2 and S3. SEM results showed that the interlocking microstructures of rod-shaped Li₂Si₂O₅ crystals became more compact when the number of sintering times was increased. Conclusion Repeated sintering exhibited significant influence on the color of the IPS e.max-CAD LS2 veneers.

Effects of sintering temperature on the mechanical properties of sintered NdFeB permanent magnets prepared by spark plasma sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wang, G.P.; Liu, W.Q.; Huang, Y.L.; Ma, S.C.; Zhong, Z.C.

2014-01-01

Sintered NdFeB-based permanent magnets were fabricated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) and a conventional method to investigate the mechanical and magnetic properties. The experimental results showed that sintered NdFeB magnet prepared by the spark plasma sintering (SPS NdFeB) possesses a better mechanical properties compared to the conventionally sintered one, of which the maximum value of bending strength and Vickers hardness was 402.3 MPa and 778.1 MPa, respectively. The effects of sintering temperature on bending strength and Vickers hardness were investigated. It was shown that the bending strength firstly increases to the maximum value and then decreases with the increase of sintering temperature in a certain range. The investigations of microstructures and mechanical properties indicated that the unique sintering mechanism in the SPS process is responsible for the improvement of mechanical properties of SPS NdFeB. Furthermore, the relations between the mechanical properties and relevant microstructure have been analyzed based on the experimental fact. - Highlights: • Studied the sintering temperature effect on strengthening mechanism of NdFeB magnet firstly. • It showed that sintering temperature may effectively affect the mechanical properties. • The maximum bending strength and Vickers hardness was 402.3 MPa and 778.1 MPa, respectively

Effects of sintering temperature on the mechanical properties of sintered NdFeB permanent magnets prepared by spark plasma sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Wang, G.P., E-mail: wgp@jxnu.edu.cn [College of Physics and Communication Electronics, Jiangxi Normal University, Nanchang 330022 (China); Liu, W.Q. [Key Laboratory of Advanced Functional Materials Science and Engineering, Ministry of Education, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100022 (China); Huang, Y.L.; Ma, S.C.; Zhong, Z.C. [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanchang Hangkong University, Nanchang 330063 (China)

2014-01-15

Sintered NdFeB-based permanent magnets were fabricated by spark plasma sintering (SPS) and a conventional method to investigate the mechanical and magnetic properties. The experimental results showed that sintered NdFeB magnet prepared by the spark plasma sintering (SPS NdFeB) possesses a better mechanical properties compared to the conventionally sintered one, of which the maximum value of bending strength and Vickers hardness was 402.3 MPa and 778.1 MPa, respectively. The effects of sintering temperature on bending strength and Vickers hardness were investigated. It was shown that the bending strength firstly increases to the maximum value and then decreases with the increase of sintering temperature in a certain range. The investigations of microstructures and mechanical properties indicated that the unique sintering mechanism in the SPS process is responsible for the improvement of mechanical properties of SPS NdFeB. Furthermore, the relations between the mechanical properties and relevant microstructure have been analyzed based on the experimental fact. - Highlights: • Studied the sintering temperature effect on strengthening mechanism of NdFeB magnet firstly. • It showed that sintering temperature may effectively affect the mechanical properties. • The maximum bending strength and Vickers hardness was 402.3 MPa and 778.1 MPa, respectively.

Microstructure and mechanical properties of NiCoCrAlYTa alloy processed by press and sintering route

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pereira, J.C., E-mail: jpereira@uc.edu.ve [Instituto de Tecnología de Materiales, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, Camino de vera s/n, Valencia, España (Spain); Centro de Investigaciones en Mecánica, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Carabobo (Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of); Zambrano, J.C. [Centro de Investigaciones en Mecánica, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Carabobo (Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of); Afonso, C.R.M. [Departamento de Engenharia de Materiais, Universidade Federal de São Carlos (UFSCar), São Carlos, SP (Brazil); Amigó, V. [Instituto de Tecnología de Materiales, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, Camino de vera s/n, Valencia, España (Spain)

2015-03-15

Nickel-based superalloys such as NiCoCrAlY are widely used in high-temperature applications, such as gas turbine components in the energy and aerospace industries, due to their strength, high elastic modulus, and high-temperature oxidation resistance. However, the processing of these alloys is complex and costly, and the alloys are currently used as a bond coat in thermal barrier coatings. In this work, the effect of cold press and sintering processing parameters on the microstructure and mechanical properties of NiCoCrAlY alloy were studied using the powder metallurgy route as a new way to obtain NiCoCrAlYTa samples from a gas atomized prealloyed powder feedstock. High mechanical strength and adequate densification up to 98% were achieved. The most suitable compaction pressure and sintering temperature were determined for NiCoCrAlYTa alloy through microstructure characterization. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and energy dispersive spectroscopy microanalysis (EDS) were performed to confirm the expected γ-Ni matrix and β-NiAl phase distribution. Additionally, the results demonstrated the unexpected presence of carbides and Ni–Y-rich zones in the microstructure due to the powder metallurgy processing parameters used. Thus, microhardness, nanoindentation and uniaxial compression tests were conducted to correlate the microstructure of the alloy samples with their mechanical properties under the different studied conditions. The results show that the compaction pressure did not significantly affect the mechanical properties of the alloy samples. In this work, the compaction pressures of 400, 700 and 1000 MPa were used. The sintering temperature of 1200 °C for NiCoCrAlYTa alloy was preferred; above this temperature, the improvement in mechanical properties is not significant due to grain coarsening, whereas a lower temperature produces a decrease in mechanical properties due to high porosity and

The effect of lanthanum boride on the sintering, sintered microstructure and mechanical properties of titanium and titanium alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yang, Y.F. [RMIT University, Centre for Additive Manufacturing, School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne VIC 3001 (Australia); Luo, S.D. [The University of Queensland, School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering, Brisbane, QLD 4072 (Australia); Qian, M., E-mail: ma.qian@rmit.edu.au [RMIT University, Centre for Additive Manufacturing, School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, GPO Box 2476, Melbourne VIC 3001 (Australia)

2014-11-17

An addition of ≤0.5 wt% lanthanum boride (LaB{sub 6}) to powder metallurgy commercially pure Ti (CP-Ti), Ti–6Al–4V and Ti–10V–2Fe–3Al (all in wt%) resulted in improved sintered density, substantial microstructural refinement, and noticeably increased tensile elongation. The addition of LaB{sub 6} led to scavenging of both oxygen (O) and chlorine (Cl) from the titanium powder during sintering, evidenced by the formation of La{sub 2}O{sub 3} and LaCl{sub x}O{sub y}. The pinning effect of La{sub 2}O{sub 3}, LaCl{sub x}O{sub y} and TiB inhibited prior-β grain growth and resulted in subsequent smaller α-laths. The formation of nearly equiaxed α-Ti phase is partially attributed to the nucleation effect of α-Ti on TiB. The improved sintered density was caused by B from LaB{sub 6} rather than La, while excessive formation of La{sub 2}O{sub 3} and TiB with an addition of >0.5 wt% LaB{sub 6} resulted in a noticeable decrease in sintered density. The improved tensile elongation with an addition of ≤0.5 wt% LaB{sub 6} was mainly attributed to the scavenging of oxygen by LaB{sub 6}, partially assisted by the improved sintered density. However, an addition of >0.5 wt% LaB{sub 6} led to the formation of large La{sub 2}O{sub 3} aggregates and more brittle TiB whiskers and therefore decreased tensile elongation. Balanced scavenging of O is thus important. The optimal addition of LaB{sub 6} was 0.5 wt% but this may change depending on the powder size of the LaB{sub 6} to be used.

The effect of lanthanum boride on the sintering, sintered microstructure and mechanical properties of titanium and titanium alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Yang, Y.F.; Luo, S.D.; Qian, M.

2014-01-01

An addition of ≤0.5 wt% lanthanum boride (LaB 6 ) to powder metallurgy commercially pure Ti (CP-Ti), Ti–6Al–4V and Ti–10V–2Fe–3Al (all in wt%) resulted in improved sintered density, substantial microstructural refinement, and noticeably increased tensile elongation. The addition of LaB 6 led to scavenging of both oxygen (O) and chlorine (Cl) from the titanium powder during sintering, evidenced by the formation of La 2 O 3 and LaCl x O y . The pinning effect of La 2 O 3 , LaCl x O y and TiB inhibited prior-β grain growth and resulted in subsequent smaller α-laths. The formation of nearly equiaxed α-Ti phase is partially attributed to the nucleation effect of α-Ti on TiB. The improved sintered density was caused by B from LaB 6 rather than La, while excessive formation of La 2 O 3 and TiB with an addition of >0.5 wt% LaB 6 resulted in a noticeable decrease in sintered density. The improved tensile elongation with an addition of ≤0.5 wt% LaB 6 was mainly attributed to the scavenging of oxygen by LaB 6 , partially assisted by the improved sintered density. However, an addition of >0.5 wt% LaB 6 led to the formation of large La 2 O 3 aggregates and more brittle TiB whiskers and therefore decreased tensile elongation. Balanced scavenging of O is thus important. The optimal addition of LaB 6 was 0.5 wt% but this may change depending on the powder size of the LaB 6 to be used

Spark Plasma Sintering of a Gas Atomized Al7075 Alloy: Microstructure and Properties

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Molnárová, O.; Málek, P.; Lukáč, František; Chráska, Tomáš

2016-01-01

Roč. 9, č. 12 (2016), č. článku 1004. ISSN 1996-1944 R&D Projects: GA ČR(CZ) GA15-15609S Institutional support: RVO:61389021 Keywords : gas atomized Al7075 alloy * spark plasma sintering * microstructure * microhardness * high temperature stability Subject RIV: JJ - Other Materials Impact factor: 2.654, year: 2016 http://www.mdpi.com/1996-1944/9/12/1004

Sintering, microstructure and properties of WC-AISI304 powder composites

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Marques, B.J.; Fernandes, C.M.; Senos, A.M.R.

2013-01-01

Highlights: ► Total replacement of Co binder by stainless steel AISI 304 in WC based composites. ► Processing conditions for WC–stainless steel composites. ► Mechanical behavior and oxidation resistance of WC–stainless steel composites. -- Abstract: Tungsten carbide–stainless steel (AISI 304) based composites were successfully prepared by powder metallurgy routes using vacuum sintering at a maximum temperature of 1500 °C. The effects of the binder amount (between 6 and 15 wt.%) on the phase composition, microstructure and mechanical properties, namely hardness and fracture toughness, were investigated. Appreciable amount of (M,W) 6 C up to 12 wt.% was detected, especially for the higher SS contents. However, a good compromise between toughness and hardness was observed. Besides that, improved oxidation resistance was noticed in WC–SS based composites compared with WC–Co composites. The results are discussed having in mind the correlation between chemical composition, phase composition, microstructure and mechanical behavior

Effect of microstructure changes on magnetic properties of spark plasma sintered Nd-Fe-B powders

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Michalski B.

2013-01-01

Full Text Available In this study the SPS method was applied for low RE content (8,5% at. and high RE content (13,5 % at. MQ powders. The powders were sintered in a wide range of temperature, for 5 min., under pressure of 35 MPa. The low RE content grade, densified reluctantly and gained the density close to the theoretical value only for 850 °C. The coercivity decreased gradually with increasing sintering temperature. On the other hand, the densification of the higher RE content grade powder occurred much easier and the coercivity, close to the theoretical value, was achieved already at 650 °C. The coercivity of this material also decreased with increasing sintering temperature. Microstructural studies revealed that the SPS sintering process leads to partial decomposition of the Nd2Fe14B phase. The proportion of the RE-rich and iron phases increases parallel to the increasing sintering temperature. On the basis of the current results one can conclude that fabrication of high density MQ powders based magnets by the SPS method is possible, however the powders having higher RE content should be used for this purpose and the sintering temperature as low as possible, related to density, should be kept.

Bioactive glass-reinforced bioceramic ink writing scaffolds: sintering, microstructure and mechanical behavior.

Science.gov (United States)

Shao, Huifeng; Yang, Xianyan; He, Yong; Fu, Jianzhong; Liu, Limin; Ma, Liang; Zhang, Lei; Yang, Guojing; Gao, Changyou; Gou, Zhongru

2015-09-10

The densification of pore struts in bioceramic scaffolds is important for structure stability and strength reliability. An advantage of ceramic ink writing is the precise control over the microstructure and macroarchitecture. However, the use of organic binder in such ink writing process would heavily affect the densification of ceramic struts and sacrifice the mechanical strength of porous scaffolds after sintering. This study presents a low-melt-point bioactive glass (BG)-assisted sintering strategy to overcome the main limitations of direct ink writing (extrusion-based three-dimensional printing) and to produce high-strength calcium silicate (CSi) bioceramic scaffolds. The 1% BG-added CSi (CSi-BG1) scaffolds with rectangular pore morphology sintered at 1080 °C have a very small BG content, readily induce apatite formation, and show appreciable linear shrinkage (∼21%), which is consistent with the composite scaffolds with less or more BG contents sintered at either the same or a higher temperature. These CSi-BG1 scaffolds also possess a high elastic modulus (∼350 MPa) and appreciable compressive strength (∼48 MPa), and show significant strength enhancement after exposure to simulated body fluid-a performance markedly superior to those of pure CSi scaffolds. Particularly, the honeycomb-pore CSi-BG1 scaffolds show markedly higher compressive strength (∼88 MPa) than the scaffolds with rectangular, parallelogram, and Archimedean chord pore structures. It is suggested that this approach can potentially facilitate the translation of ceramic ink writing and BG-assisted sintering of bioceramic scaffold technologies to the in situ bone repair.

Phase and microstructural characterization of Mo–Si–B multiphase intermetallic alloys produced by pressureless sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Taleghani, P.R.; Bakhshi, S.R.; Borhani, G.H.; Erfanmanesh, M.

2014-01-01

Highlights: • Active and ultra-fine Mo–Si–B powders were produced by mechanical alloying. • The phases of MoSi 2 and MoB were obtained by sintering Mo–57Si–10B at 1400 °C for 2 h. • Composite based on MoB/MoSi 2 was obtained by sintering Mo–47Si–23B at 1300 °C for 3 h. • High content of MoB in the composite based on MoB/MoSi 2 increased density. • High hardness of the composite based on MoB/MoSi 2 is related to MoB matrix. -- Abstract: In this study Mo–47Si–23B and Mo–57Si–10B powders (at.%) was milled for 20 h in attritor ball mill with a rotational speed of 365 rpm and the ball/powder mass ratio 20/1. After degassing of As-mechanically alloyed powders at 450 °C, the powders were pressed into cylindrical samples with 25 mm diameter under 600 MPa pressure. The samples were sintered by using of a tube resistance furnace under Ar atmosphere. Phase and microstructure characteristic of mechanically alloyed powders and sintered samples, were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and energy dispersive spectroscopy. Also hardness test was performed. Homogeneous distribution of active and ultra-fine powders were obtained after milling for 20 h. Mo–57Si–10B alloy with MoB and MoSi 2 dominant phases was produced by sintering at 1400 °C for 2 h. Dominant phases similar to Mo–57Si–10B alloy sintered at 1400 °C for 2 h could be synthesized in Mo–47Si–23B alloy after sintering at 1300 °C for 3 h, but volume fraction of MoB phase was different. The Mo–47Si–23B alloy contained a higher phase fraction of MoB compound as compared to Mo–57Si–10B alloy. Very high density in Mo–47Si–23B alloys was obtained, due to the presence of high volume fraction of MoB phase. Formation heat of MoB acted as a positive potential to increase driving force of sintering and consequently bulk density. Finally, a uniform and fine distribution of MoSi 2 particles in MoB continuous matrix in the microstructure of Mo-47Si

Characterization and microwave dielectric properties of Mg{sub 2}YVO{sub 6} ceramic

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Su, Chia-Hui; Wang, Yi-Sheng; Huang, Cheng-Liang, E-mail: huangcl@mail.ncku.edu.tw

2015-08-25

Highlights: • Study the microwave dielectric properties and microstructure of Mg{sub 2}YVO{sub 6}. • Mg{sub 2}YVO{sub 6} possesses excellent dielectric properties. • Both extrinsic and intrinsic factors have effects on Q × f of specimens. - Abstract: Tetragonal-structured Mg{sub 2}YVO{sub 6} ceramics were prepared by conventional solid-state method, and their physical and microwave dielectric properties were investigated for the first time. The forming of Mg{sub 2}YVO{sub 6} main phase was confirmed by XRD diffraction pattern. XPS and Raman spectrum were recorded to clarify the chemical states of elements and vibration and rotation modes of the specimen, respectively. In addition, the relationships between sintering temperature, packing fraction, and microwave dielectric properties in Mg{sub 2}YVO{sub 6} ceramics were also studied. The new microwave dielectric material Mg{sub 2}YVO{sub 6} ceramics sintered at 1290 °C for 4 h has a dielectric constant (ε{sub r}) of ∼10.88, a Q × f of ∼68,300 GHz (f = 10.389 GHz), and a τ{sub f} ∼ −53.9 ppm/°C, demonstrating a candidate for microwave application.

Microstructure, Hardness, and Corrosion Behavior of TiC-Duplex Stainless Steel Composites Fabricated by Spark Plasma Sintering

Science.gov (United States)

Han, Ying; Zhang, Wei; Sun, Shicheng; Chen, Hua; Ran, Xu

2017-08-01

Duplex stainless steel composites with various weight fractions of TiC particles are prepared by spark plasma sintering. Ferritic 434L and austenitic 316L stainless steel powders are premixed in a 50:50 weight ratio and added with 3-9 wt.% TiC. The compacts are sintered in the solid state under vacuum conditions at 1223 K for 5 min. The effects of TiC content on the microstructure, hardness, and corrosion resistance of duplex stainless steel composites fabricated by powder metallurgy are evaluated. The results indicate that the TiC particulates as reinforcements can be distributed homogeneously in the steel matrix. Densification of sintered composites decreases with increasing TiC content. M23C6 carbide precipitates along grain boundary, and its neighboring Cr-Mo-depleted region is formed in the sintered microstructure, which can be eliminated subsequently with appropriate heat treatment. With the addition of TiC, the hardness of duplex stainless steel fabricated by powder metallurgy can be markedly enhanced despite increased porosity in the composites. However, TiC particles increase the corrosion rate and degrade the passivation capability, particularly for the composite with TiC content higher than 6 wt.%. Weakened metallurgical bonding in the composite with high TiC content provides the preferred sites for pitting nucleation and/or dissolution.

Thermal Mechanical Processing Effects on Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Properties of the Sintered Ti-22Al-25Nb Alloy.

Science.gov (United States)

Wang, Yuanxin; Lu, Zhen; Zhang, Kaifeng; Zhang, Dalin

2016-03-11

This work illustrates the effect of thermal mechanical processing parameters on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the Ti-22Al-25Nb alloy prepared by reactive sintering with element powders, consisting of O, B2 and Ti₃Al phases. Tensile and plane strain fracture toughness tests were carried out at room temperature to understand the mechanical behavior of the alloys and its correlation with the microstructural features characterized by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The results show that the increased tensile strength (from 340 to 500 MPa) and elongation (from 3.6% to 4.2%) is due to the presence of lamellar O/B2 colony and needle-like O phase in B2 matrix in the as-processed Ti-22Al-25Nb alloys, as compared to the coarse lath O adjacent to B2 in the sintered alloys. Changes in morphologies of O phase improve the fracture toughness ( K IC ) of the sintered alloys from 7 to 15 MPa·m -1/2 . Additionally, the fracture mechanism shifts from cleavage fracture in the as-sintered alloys to quasi-cleavage fracture in the as-processed alloys.

The Effects of Post-Sintering Treatments on Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Mn-Mo Steel

Science.gov (United States)

Fiał, Ch.

2017-12-01

The effect of heat treatment on density, hardness, microstructure and tensile properties of Fe-0.85Mo-1.3Mn-0.6C sintered steel were investigated. Pre-alloyed Astaloy 85Mo, ferromanganese and UF4 graphite powders were mixed for 60 minutes in a Turbula mixer and then pressed in single-action die at 660MPa to produce green compacts (according to PN EN ISO 2740).The compacts were sintered in a specially designed semi-closed container at 1120 or 1250°C for 60 minutes in N2. The chemical composition of the sintering atmosphere was modified by adding getter and/or activator into the container. Two different types of heat treatment in nitrogen were carried out: sinteraustempering at 525°C for 60 minutes; and sinterhardening with additional tempering at 200°C for 60 minutes. The slightly better combination of strength and plasticity of steel for both sintering temperatures were achieved after sinterhardening+tempering variant. Average values of 0.2% offset yield stress, ultimate tensile strength and elongation after sintering in 1250°C, were 415MPa, 700MPa, and 2.0%, respectively.

Sintering behavior, microstructure and properties of TiC-FeCr hard alloy

Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

Farid Akhtar; Shiju Guo; Jawid Askari; Jianjun Tian

2007-01-01

TiC based cermets were produced with FeCr,as a binder,by conventional P/M (powder metallurgy) to near ＞97% of the theoretical density.Sintering temperature significantly affects the mechanical properties of the composite.The sintering temperature of＞1360 ℃ caused severe chemical reaction between TiC particles and the binder phase.In the TiC-FeCr cermets,the mechanical properties did not vary linearly with the carbide content.Optimum mechanical properties were found in the composite containing 57wt%TiC reinforcement,when sintered at 1360 ℃ for 1 h.Use of carbon as an additive enhanced the mechanical properties of the composites.Cermets containing carbon as an additive with 49wt% TiC exhibited attractive mechanical properties.The microstructure of the developed composite contained less or no debonding,representing good wettability of the binder with TiC particles.Homogeneous distribution of the TiC particles ensured the presence of isotropic mechanical properties and homogeneous distribution of stresses in the composite.Preliminary experiments for evaluation of the oxidation resistance of FeCr bonded TiC cermets indicate that they are more resistant than WC-Co hardmetals.

Laser sintering of nano 13-93 glass scaffolds: Microstructure, mechanical properties and bioactivity

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Cao Y.

2015-01-01

Full Text Available As the only bioactive material that can bond with both hard tissues and soft tissues, bioactive glass has become much important in the field of tissue engineering. 13-93 bioactive glass scaffolds were fabricated via selective laser sintering (SLS. It was focused on the effects of laser sintering on microstructure and mechanical properties of the scaffolds. The experimental results showed that the sintered layer gradually became dense with the laser power increasing and then some defects occurred, such as macroscopic caves. The optimum compressive strength and fracture toughness were 21.43±0.87 MPa and 1.14±0.09 MPa.m1/2, respectively. In vitro bioactivity showed that there was the bone-like apatite layer on the surface of the scaffolds after soaking in simulated body fluid (SBF, which was further evaluated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR. Moreover, cell culture study showed MG-63 cells adhered and spread well on the scaffolds, and proliferated with increasing time in cell culture. These indicated excellent bioactivity and biocompatibility of nano 13-93 glass scaffolds.

Modeling of microstructure evolution in direct metal laser sintering: A phase field approach

Science.gov (United States)

Nandy, Jyotirmoy; Sarangi, Hrushikesh; Sahoo, Seshadev

2017-02-01

Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) is a new technology in the field of additive manufacturing, which builds metal parts in a layer by layer fashion directly from the powder bed. The process occurs within a very short time period with rapid solidification rate. Slight variations in the process parameters may cause enormous change in the final build parts. The physical and mechanical properties of the final build parts are dependent on the solidification rate which directly affects the microstructure of the material. Thus, the evolving of microstructure plays a vital role in the process parameters optimization. Nowadays, the increase in computational power allows for direct simulations of microstructures during materials processing for specific manufacturing conditions. In this study, modeling of microstructure evolution of Al-Si-10Mg powder in DMLS process was carried out by using a phase field approach. A MATLAB code was developed to solve the set of phase field equations, where simulation parameters include temperature gradient, laser scan speed and laser power. The effects of temperature gradient on microstructure evolution were studied and found that with increase in temperature gradient, the dendritic tip grows at a faster rate.

Improvement of the microstructure and magnetic properties of sintered NdFeB permant magnets

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vial, F.; Rozendaal, E.; Sagawa, M.

1998-01-01

A correlation between sintered NdFeB process, microstructure of the products at each step of the process and magnetic properties has been established. To increase (BH) max of sintered NdFeB magnets, the total rare-earth content in the alloy has to be decreased and to keep coercivity as high as possible, the unavoidable oxygen pick-up has to be substantially reduced. The composition improvements tend to create a high sensitivity to form abnormal grain growth which can potentially occur during the sintering operation. Special attention has been given to characterising, understanding the mechanisms and solving this defect which could affect the magnetic properties. In addition, the composition and each step of the process have been optimised to improve magnetic properties, thermal stability and corrosion resistance of the NdFeB permanent magnets. These collaborative studies have resulted in a significant improvement of both remanence and coercivity of the sintered NdFeB permanent magnets, covering a wide coercivity range from 800 to 2500 kA/m (10 to 35 kOe) with respective associated energy products of 400 to 270 kJ/m3 (52 to 35 MGOe). (orig.)

Influence of sintering temperature on microstructures and energy-storage properties of barium strontium titanate glass-ceramics prepared by sol-gel process

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Zhu, Jia; Zhang, Yong; Song, Xiaozhen; Zhang, Qian; Yang, Dongliang; Chen, Yongzhou [Beijing Key Laboratory of Fine Ceramics, State Key Laboratory of New Ceramics and Fine Processing, Institute of Nuclear and New Energy Technology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084 (China)

2015-12-15

The sol-gel processing, microstructures, dielectric properties and energy-storage properties of barium strontium titanate glass-ceramics over the sintering temperature range of 1000-1150 C were studied. Through the X-ray diffraction result, it is revealed that the crystallinity increases as the sintering temperature increased from 1000 to 1080 C and has reached a steady-state regime above 1100 C. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that with the increase of sintering temperature, the crystal size increased. Dielectric measurements revealed that the increase in the sintering temperature resulted in a significant increase in the dielectric constant, a strong sharpness of the temperature-dependent dielectric response and a pronounced decrease of the temperature of the dielectric maximum. The correlation between charge spreading behavior and activation energies of crystal and glass was discussed by the employment of the impedance spectroscopy studies. As a result of polarization-electric field hysteresis loops, both the charged and discharged densities increased with increasing sintering temperature. And the maximum value of energy storage efficiency was found to occur at 1130 C. Finally, the dependence of released energy and power densities calculated from the discharged current-time (I-t) curves on the sintering temperature was studied. The relationship between the energy storage properties and microstructure was correlated. Polarization-electric field hysteresis loops for the BST glass-ceramics sintered at different temperatures. (copyright 2015 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH and Co. KGaA, Weinheim)

The effect of Cu addition and milling contaminations on the microstructure evolution of ball milled Al-Pb alloy during sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhu, M.; Ouyang, L.Z.; Wu, Z.F.; Zeng, M.Q.; Li, Y.Y.; Zou, J.

2006-01-01

Al-10 wt.%Pb and Al-10 wt.%Pb-x wt.%Cu (x = 0-7.0) bulk alloys were prepared by sintering the mechanically alloyed powders at various temperatures. The microstructure changes of the as consolidated powders in the course of sintering were analyzed by differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis and transmission electron microscopy. It has been found that, with respect to the Al-10 wt.%Pb-x wt.%Cu alloy, CuAl 2 and Cu 9 Al 4 phases formed in the milling process, and the amount of CuAl 2 phase increased while the Cu 9 Al 4 phase disappeared gradually in the sintering process. In both Al-10 wt.%Pb and Al-10 wt.%Pb-x wt.%Cu alloys, the sintering process results in the coarsening of Pb phase and the growth rate of Pb phase fulfills the Lifshitz-Slyozov-Wagner equation even though the size of the Pb phase was in nanometer range. The Pb particle exhibits cuboctahedral morphology and has a cubic to cubic orientation relationship with the Al matrix. The addition of Cu strongly depressed the growth rate of Pb. Contamination induced by milling has apparent influence on the microstructure of the sintered alloys. Al 7 Cu 2 Fe and aluminium oxide phases were identified in the sintered alloys. The cuboctahedral morphology of Pb particles was broken up by the presence of the oxide phase

Method of sintering ceramic materials

Science.gov (United States)

Holcombe, Cressie E.; Dykes, Norman L.

1992-01-01

A method for sintering ceramic materials is described. A ceramic article is coated with layers of protective coatings such as boron nitride, graphite foil, and niobium. The coated ceramic article is embedded in a container containing refractory metal oxide granules and placed within a microwave oven. The ceramic article is heated by microwave energy to a temperature sufficient to sinter the ceramic article to form a densified ceramic article having a density equal to or greater than 90% of theoretical density.

Effects of sintering processes on mechanical properties and microstructure of TiB2–TiC + 8 wt% nano-Ni composite ceramic cutting tool material

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zou Bin; Huang Chuanzhen; Song Jinpeng; Liu Ziye; Liu Lin; Zhao Yan

2012-01-01

Highlights: ► TiB 2 –TiC + 8 wt% nano-Ni ceramic tool material was sintered by six processes. ► The properties of material depended mainly on the holding stages and duration. ► SP1 process was involved with the multiple holding stages and longer duration. ► SP1 process led to many pores, and coarsening and brittle rupture of grains. ► Tool material sintered by SP6 process exhibited the optimum mechanical properties. - Abstract: TiB 2 –TiC composite powder was prepared by ball-milled with ethanol and vacuum dry, and TiB 2 –TiC + 8 wt% nano-Ni composite ceramic cutting tool material was sintered using vacuum hot-pressed sintering technique by six processes which included the different holding stages and times. The effects of sintering processes on the mechanical properties and microstructure were investigated. The polished surface and fracture surface of TiB 2 –TiC + 8 wt% nano-Ni ceramics sintered by the different sintering processes were observed by scanning electron microscope (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS), and the relationships between mechanical properties and microstructure were discussed. The mechanical properties and microstructure depended mainly on the total holding time and the different holding stages. The longer holding time and multiple holding stages led to coarsening of TiB 2 and TiC grains, formation of pores and the brittle rupture of grains, which deteriorated the mechanical properties of TiB 2 –TiC + 8 wt% nano-Ni ceramic. TiB 2 –TiC + 8 wt% nano-Ni composite ceramic cutting tool material sintered by SP6 process exhibited the optimum resultant mechanical properties because of its finer microstructure and higher relative density, and its flexural strength, fracture toughness and hardness were 916.8 MPa, 7.80 MPa m 1/2 and 22.54 GPa, respectively.

Microstructural stability of spark-plasma-sintered Wf/W composite with zirconia interface coating under high-heat-flux hydrogen beam irradiation

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

M. Avello de Lama

2017-12-01

In this paper, the durability and chemical stability of Wf/W composite specimens under cyclic heat-flux loads up to 20 MW/m² (surface temperature: 1260 °C was investigated using hydrogen neutral beam. The bulk material was fabricated by means of spark-plasma-sintering (SPS method using fine tungsten powder and a stack of tungsten wire meshes as reinforcement where the surface of the wire was coated with zirconia thin film to produce an engineered interface. The impact of plasma beam irradiation on microstructure was examined for two kinds of specimens produced at different sintering temperatures, 1400 °C and 1700 °C. Results of microscopic (SEM and chemical (EDX analysis are presented comparing the microstructure and element distribution maps obtained before and after heat flux loading. Effects of different sintering temperatures on damage behaviour are discussed. The present composite materials are shown to be applicable as plasma-facing material for high-heat-flux components.

Microwave sintering of poly-ether-ether-ketone (PEEK) based coatings deposited on metallic substrate

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhang, G.; Leparoux, S.; Liao, H.; Coddet, C.

2006-01-01

In this paper, the feasibility of microwave (MW) sintering PEEK (poly-ether-ether-ketone) based coatings was investigated. Three coatings were studied: pure PEEK, micron-SiC and nano-SiC particles filled (wt.10%) PEEK coatings. The results indicate that, for the two composite coatings, the SiC particles distributed in the polymer matrix, as a good MW susceptor, could be heated preferentially by MW radiation. Consequently, the polymer matrix was heated by these particles

Influence of reinforcement weight fraction on microstructure and properties of submicron WC-Cop/Cu bulk MMCs prepared by direct laser sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gu, Dongdong; Shen, Yifu

2007-01-01

Direct metal laser sintering (DMLS), due to its flexibility in materials and shapes, exhibits a great potential for fabricating complex shaped bulk metal matrix composites (MMCs). In the present work, the submicron WC-10% Co particulate reinforced Cu matrix composites were prepared using DMLS. The influence of reinforcement content on the sintered densification and the attendant microstructures, e.g. the dispersion homogeneity of the reinforcing particulates and the interfacial bonding ability, was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy disperse X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, and atomic force microscope (AFM). It shows that using a low reinforcement content of 20 wt.% results in a poor densification with severe balling phenomena, due to a higher average composite coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) and a superheating of the melt. A heterogeneous microstructure with a significant particulate aggregation is obtained at a high reinforcement content of 40 wt.%, because of a limited liquid formation and the resultant high liquid viscosity and reduced Marangoni effect. Using an optimal reinforcement content of 30 wt.% leads to a uniform distribution of the reinforcing particulates and a compatible interfacial microstructure, so as to obtain a favorable sintered density of 90.3% theoretical density

SnO{sub 2}{sup *}CoO ceramic obtained by microwave sintering; Ceramicas de SnO{sub 2} {sup *}CoO obtidas por sinterizacao microondas

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bordignon, M.A.N; Moura, F.; Zaghete, M.A.; Varela, J.A.; Perazolli, L. [Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Araraquara, SP (Brazil). Chemistry Institute. Dept. de Biochemistry and Technological Chemistryl

2009-07-01

This work consists in the sintering study of CoO doped SnO{sub 2} using microwave sintering oven and silicon carbide as a susceptor. The powders were obtained by dry oxides mixture and conformed in cylindrical shapes with 6mmx8mm and green density to 60%. Then the compacts were sintering up to 1.050 deg C, using heating rate of 50 deg C/min and isotherm up to 30min. The densities obtained were above 95% for both techniques. It was observed that occurred a temperature reducing of 400 deg C and time reducing of 210min to obtain the same densities, when was used the microwave oven without the phenomena of thermal runaway. So the sintered compacts were accomplished using DRX and SEM. It was made the electrical characterization (current x voltage) and it was found to have great potential in the production of dense ceramic-based SnO{sub 2} with low resistivity to obtain electro-ceramic devices. (author)

Prospects of microwave processing: An overview

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Administrator

wave heating. In addition, microwave energy is being explored for the sintering of metal powders also. Ceramic and metal nanopowders have been sintered in microwave. Furthermore, initiatives have been taken to process the amorphous materials (e.g. glass) by microwave heating. Besides this, an attempt has been made ...

Effect of rare earth oxide addition on microstructures of ultra-fine WC-Co particulate reinforced Cu matrix composites prepared by direct laser sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gu Dongdong; Shen Yifu; Zhao Long; Xiao Jun; Wu Peng; Zhu Yongbing

2007-01-01

This paper presents a detailed investigation into the influence of the rare earth (RE) oxide (La 2 O 3 ) addition upon the densification and the resultant microstructural characteristics of the submicron WC-Co particulate reinforced Cu matrix composites prepared by direct laser sintering. It is found that the relative density of the laser sintered sample with 1 wt.% La 2 O 3 addition increased by 11.5% as compared with the sample without RE addition. The addition of RE element favored the microstructural refinement and improved the particulate dispersion homogeneity and the particulate/matrix interfacial coherence. The metallurgical functions of the RE element in improving the sinterability were also addressed. It shows that due to the unique properties of RE element such as high surface activity and large atomic radius, the addition of trace RE element can decrease the surface tension of the melt, resist the grain growth coarsening and increase the heterogeneous nucleation rate during laser sintering

Comparison of Ti(C,N)-based cermets processed by hot-pressing sintering and conventional pressureless sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Xu, Qingzhong; Ai, Xing; Zhao, Jun; Qin, Weizhen; Wang, Yintao; Gong, Feng

2015-01-01

Highlights: • The HP sintered Ti(C,N)-based cermets exhibit high hardness with fine grain size. • The PLS sintered cermets possess high mechanical properties with low porosity. • The applied pressure can rearrange particles and contribute to grain refinement. • The heating rate can greatly affect the solid and liquid phase sintering of cermets. - Abstract: A suitable sintering method is important to obtain the Ti(C,N)-based cermets with superior properties. In this paper, Ti(C,N)-based cermets were fabricated by hot-pressing sintering (HP) and conventional pressureless sintering (PLS) technology, respectively, to investigate the influence of different sintering methods on the microstructure and mechanical properties of cermets materials. The microstructure, fracture morphology, indention cracks and phase composition were observed and detected using scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The transverse rupture strength (TRS), Vickers hardness (HV) and fracture toughness (K IC ) were also measured. The results reveal that all of the Ti(C,N)-based cermets exhibit core–rim microstructures with black cores, white cores and grey rims embedded into metal binder phases. The grain size of the samples fabricated by HP is much finer and the structure is more compact than those fabricated by PLS, while there exist pores in the HP sintered samples. The sintering process has no influence on the phase composition of cermets, but affects the phase content and crystallinity. The samples fabricated by PLS present higher transverse rupture strength, fracture toughness and density than samples fabricated by HP. However, the HP sintered samples possess a higher hardness

Development of microstructure during sintering and aluminium exposure of titanium diboride ceramics

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pettersen, Gunnar

1997-12-31

In the production of aluminium, much less energy need be consumed if an inert, wetted cathode is present in the electrolysis cell. Titanium diboride, TiB{sub 2}, is easily wetted and does not readily dissolve in liquid aluminium, but it degrades, probably because aluminium penetrates into it during electrolysis. This degradation is linked to impurities present in the TiB{sub 2} after sintering. This thesis studies the sintering process and how aluminium penetrates into the material. High-purity, high-density TiB{sub 2} compacts were made by hot pressing at 50 MPa in an argon atmosphere at 1790-1960 {sup o}C. Samples were made with different impurity additions. These samples were exposed to liquid aluminium at 980 {sup o}C for 24 hours. All samples were penetrated, but the amount and appearance depended on the sintering aid used. Unlike the other samples, pure TiB{sub 2} was easily penetrated by metallic aluminium because of the open porosity and microcracks of this material. Grain boundary penetration was common among the samples. Differences in penetration behaviour between grain boundaries are probably due to differences in grain boundary energy. But no relation to segregants or boundary misorientation was found. The orientation of grain boundary planes and de-wetting of thin films upon cooling may explain the observed microstructure development. The samples sintered with Ti addition suffered extensive penetration despite their high densities. The grain boundaries of these samples became faceted and contained thicker films of metallic aluminium, presumably because of increased solubility due to iron segregations. All secondary phases present in the grain junctions after sintering, except from the B{sub 4}C phase, reacted with the penetrated aluminium. This did not cause swelling and cracking, as has been suggested by other authors. 101 refs., 48 figs., 7 tabs.

The influence of green microstructure and sintering parameters on precipitation process during copper-nickel-zinc ferrites sintering

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Barba, Antonio

2014-04-01

Full Text Available Microstructural changes that occur during heat treatment of copper-nickel-zinc ferrites have been studied. The process of precipitation of the two types of crystals that occur during the sintering process has been analyzed. It is found that this process depends on dry relative density of the press specimens and on the following sintering parameters: sintering temperature, sintering time and cooling rate of the thermal cycle. Crystal precipitates characterization have been done by scanning electron microscopy (SEM, energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX analysis, X-ray diffraction (XRD, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS. These techniques have allowed to determine the nature of these crystals, which in this case correspond to zinc and copper oxides. It has been used two chemical reactions to explain the bulk precipitation and subsequent re-dissolution of these crystal precipitates during sintering.En este trabajo se han estudiado los cambios microestructurales que se producen durante el tratamiento térmico de las ferritas de cobre-níquel-cinc y se ha analizado el proceso de precipitación de los dos tipos de cristales que aparecen durante el proceso de sinterización. Se ha encontrado que este proceso depende de la densidad relativa en seco de las muestras compactadas y de las siguientes variables de la etapa de sinterización: temperatura y tiempo de sinterización y velocidad de enfriamiento. La caracterización de los cristales precipitados se ha realizado por microscopía electrónica de barrido (MEB, microanálisis por dispersión de energía de rayos X (EDX, difracción de rayos X (DRX, y espectroscopía de fotoelectrones de rayos X (XPS. Estas técnicas han permitido determinar la naturaleza de estos cristales, que en este caso corresponden a los óxidos de cinc y de cobre. Se han propuesto dos reacciones químicas que permiten explicar el proceso de precipitación y la posterior re-disolución de estos cristales precipitados durante la

Structural and magnetic studies of La{sub 2}BMnO{sub 6} (B=Ni and Co) nanoparticles prepared by microwave sintering approach

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Reddy, M. Penchal, E-mail: drlpenchal@gmail.com [Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, Doha 2713 (Qatar); Shakoor, R.A., E-mail: shakoor@qu.edu.qa [Center for Advanced Materials, Qatar University, Doha 2713 (Qatar); Mohamed, A.M.A. [Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, Faculty of Petroleum and Mining Engineering, Suez University, Suez 43721 (Egypt)

2016-07-01

Double perovskite La{sub 2}BMnO{sub 6} (B=Ni and Co) nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by microwave sintering approach (MWS). The crystal structure properties of LBMO nanoparticles were systematically investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopies (XPS). The morphological characteristic features were examined by TEM and SEM images. Magnetization measurements were carried out by employing a physical property measurement system (PPMS). Field cooled (FC) and Zero field cooled (ZFC) magnetization measurements under an applied field of 100 Oe and in the temperature range of 5–400 K were performed. The single-phase La{sub 2}Ni/CoMnO{sub 6} of about 40–50 nm size was synthesized at 900 °C for 10 min, without the formation of any intermediate phase. The magnetization values obtained in the present wok show magnitudes of 42.9 emu/g and 65.4 emu/g for LNMO and LCMO, respectively. It is further noted that microwave sintered sample showed higher saturation magnetization values than the conventionally sintered samples reported in the literature and thus are promising candidate for possible spintronic applications in novel devices. - Highlights: • La{sub 2}BMnO{sub 6} (B=Ni and Co) nanoparticles were successfully synthesized by microwave sintering approach. • Crystal structure was confirmed by XRD, FTIR and SEM. • Its structural, morphological, magnetic behavior is studied. • Outstanding saturation magnetization of 42.9 and 65.4 emu/g for LNMO and LCMO, respectively.

Effect of Gold on the Microstructural Evolution and Integrity of a Sintered Silver Joint

Science.gov (United States)

Muralidharan, Govindarajan; Leonard, Donovan N.; Meyer, Harry M.

2017-07-01

There is a need for next-generation, high-performance power electronic packages and systems employing wide-bandgap devices to operate at high temperatures in automotive and electric grid applications. Sintered silver joints are currently being evaluated as an alternative to Pb-free solder joints. Of particular interest is the development of joints based on silver paste consisting of nano- or micron-scale particles that can be processed without application of external pressure. The microstructural evolution at the interface of a pressureless-sintered silver joint formed between a SiC die with Ti/Ni/Au metallization and an active metal brazed (AMB) substrate with Ag metallization at 250°C has been evaluated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), x-ray microanalysis, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Results from focused ion beam (FIB) cross-sections show that, during sintering, pores in the sintered region near to the Au layer tend to be narrow and elongated with long axis oriented parallel to the interface. Further densification results in formation of many small, relatively equiaxed pores aligned parallel to the interface, creating a path for easy crack propagation. X-ray microanalysis results confirm interdiffusion between Au and Ag and that a region with poor mechanical strength is formed at the edge of this region of interdiffusion.

Reactive sintering and microstructure development of tungsten carbide-AISI 304 stainless steel cemented carbides

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Fernandes, C.M. [Department of Materials and Ceramics Engineering, CICECO, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro (Portugal); CEMUC-Mechanical Engineering Department, University of Coimbra, Rua Luís Reis Santos, Pinhal de Marrocos, 3030-788 Coimbra (Portugal); Oliveira, F.J. [Department of Materials and Ceramics Engineering, CICECO, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro (Portugal); Senos, A.M.R., E-mail: anamor@ua.pt [Department of Materials and Ceramics Engineering, CICECO, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro (Portugal)

2017-06-01

Sintering of WC-stainless steel (SS) composites within a typical binder range from 6 up to 15 wt% SS was investigated through constant heating rate dilatometry, in vacuum conditions, complemented by differential thermal analysis and by the study of the high temperature wetting behavior of SS on WC. The densification starts ∼900 °C with a typical densification curve for all compositions, where three distinct regions are discernible: the first one with a slow densification rate, followed by a second region where a sharp increase in the densification rate up to a maximum value dependent on the binder amount is observed and, finally, a third one with a slowdown of the densification rate until the end of the thermal cycle. The attained final density at 1450 °C is dependent on the binder amount, increasing proportionally to its initial content. The final microstructure presents a normal grain size distribution and appreciable amounts of eta-phase, besides the major WC phase and residual iron rich phase. The reactive densification behavior and the role of the liquid phase are interpreted accordingly with structural and kinetic data. - Highlights: • Sintering of WC-AISI304 composites starts ∼900 °C and involves three stages. • Densification is largely dominated by a reactive liquid phase sintering process. • Eta-phase constitutes a transient liquid phase during sintering. • Sintering cycles are dependent on the initial binder content.

On the microstructure analysis of FSW joints of aluminium components made via direct metal laser sintering

Science.gov (United States)

Scherillo, Fabio; Astarita, Antonello; di Martino, Daniela; Contaldi, Vincenzo; di Matteo, Luca; di Petta, Paolo; Casarin, Renzo; Squillace, Antonino; Langella, Antonio

2017-10-01

Additive Manufacturing (AM), applied to metal industry, is a family of processes that allow complex shape components to be realized from raw materials in the form of powders. The compaction of the powders can be achieved by local melting of the powder bed or by solid state sintering. Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) is an additive manufacturing process in which a focalized laser beam is the heat source that allows the powders to be compacted. By DMLS it is possible to realize complex shape components. One of the limits of DMLS, as for every additive layer manufacturing techniques, is the unfeasibility to realize large dimension parts. Due to this limit the study of joining process of parts made via ALM is of great interest. One of the most promising options is the Friction Stir Welding (FSW), a solid state welding technique that has been proven to be very effective in the welding of metals difficult to weld, above all aluminium alloys. Since FSW is a solid-state technique, the microstructure of the various zone of the weld bead depends not only by the process itself but also by the parent microstruct ure of the parts to be welded. Furthermore, parts made of aluminium alloy via DMLS have a particular microstructure that is the result of repeated severe thermal cycles. In the present work the authors, starting from the description of the parent microstructure of parts made of AlSi10Mg aluminium alloy, study the microstructure evolution occurred within the joint made by Friction Stir Welding, analysing in details the microstructure of the main well recognized zone of the weld bead. The structure of the parent material is characterized by the presence of melting pools with a very fine microstructure. In the joint the recrystallization, the grain refinement and, above all, the redistribution of intermetallic phases occurs, resulting in an homogenization of the microstructure and in an increase of micro hardness.

Study on Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of Foam Titanium Carbide Ceramics Fabricated by Reaction Sintering Process

Science.gov (United States)

Ma, Yana; Bao, Chonggao; Chen, Jie; Song, Suocheng; Han, Longhao

2018-05-01

Foam titanium carbide (TiC) ceramics with a three-dimensional network structure were fabricated by the reaction sintering process, in which polyurethane foam was taken as the template, and TiO2 and phenolic resin were used as the reactants. Phase, microstructures and fracture morphologies of foam TiC ceramics were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. The results show that when the mass ratios of phenolic resin and TiO2 (F/T) are (0.8-1.2): 1, foam TiC ceramics with pure TiC phase can be formed. As the F/T ratios increase, crystal lattice parameters of fabricated foam TiC ceramics become bigger. When the value of F/T decreases from 1.2 to 0.8, grain size of TiC grows larger and microstructures get denser; meanwhile, the compressive strength increases from 0.10 to 1.05 MPa. Additionally, either raising the sintering temperatures or extending holding time can facilitate the completion of the reaction process and increase the compressive strength.

Research on sintering behavior and microwave dielectric property of (Mg0.95Ca0.05)TiO3 ceramics for cross coupling filter

Science.gov (United States)

Luo, Chunya; Ma, Zhichao; Hu, Laisheng; Hu, Mingzhe; Huang, Xiaomin

2015-12-01

The microwave dielectric properties of 0.95%MgTiO3-0.05%CaTiO3 (abbreviated as 95MCT hereafter) ceramics have been studied for application in dielectric cross coupling filters. ZnO and Nb2O5 were selected as liquid sintering aids to lower the sintering temperature and enhance the Qf value of 95MCT and simultaneously we varied the mole ratio of ZnO : Nb2O5 to tune the microwave dielectric properties of 95MCT. When the ZnO : Nb2O5 mole ratio was 1.5 and the co-doping content was 0.25 wt.%, the optimal sintering temperature of 95MCT ceramic could be lowered from 1400∘C to 1320∘C and the Qf value could be improved by about 7.7%. The optimal microwave dielectric properties obtained under this condition were Qf = 72730 GHz (6.8 GHz), ɛr = 20.29 and τf = -6.84ppm/∘C, which demonstrated great potential usage in ceramic industry. High values of Qf ceramic were used to design the dielectric cross coupling filter. The dielectric filter measured at 2.35 GHz exhibited a 6.7% bandwidth (insert loss > -3 dB) of center frequency.

Magnetic microstructure and magnetic properties of spark plasma sintered NdFeB magnets

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Huang, Y.L., E-mail: hyl1019_lin@163.com [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanchang Hangkong University, Nanchang 330063 (China); Wang, Y.; Hou, Y.H.; Wang, Y.L.; Wu, Y.; Ma, S.C. [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanchang Hangkong University, Nanchang 330063 (China); Liu, Z.W.; Zeng, D.C. [School of Materials Science and Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640 (China); Tian, Y.; Xia, W.X. [Key Laboratory of Magnetic Materials and Devices, Ningbo Institute of Material Technology and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo 315201 (China); Zhong, Z.C., E-mail: zzhong2014@sina.com [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanchang Hangkong University, Nanchang 330063 (China)

2016-02-01

Nanocrystalline NdFeB magnets were prepared by spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique using melt-spun ribbons as starting materials. A distinct two-zone structure with coarse grain zone and fine grain zone was formed in the SPSed magnets. Multi-domain particle in coarse grain zone and exchange interaction domain for fine grain zone were observed. Intergranular non-magnetic phase was favorable to improve the coercivity due to the enhancement of domain wall pinning effects and increased exchange-decouple. The remanent polarization of 0.83 T, coercivity of 1516 kA/m, and maximum energy product of 118 kJ/m{sup 3} are obtained for an isotropic magnet. - Highlights: • Nanocrystalline NdFeB magnets were prepared by spark plasma sintering technique. • Multi-domain particle and exchange interaction domain were observed. • Magnetic microstructure and their relation to the properties were investigated.

Spark Plasma Sintering constrained process parameters of sintered silver paste for connection in power electronic modules: Microstructure, mechanical and thermal properties

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Alayli, N. [Université Paris 13, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Laboratoire des Sciences des Procédés et des Matériaux, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Propre de Recherche 3407, 99 avenue Jean Baptiste Clément, F-93430 Villetaneuse (France); Université de Versailles-Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, Sorbonne Universités, Université Pierre et Marie Curie, Université Paris 06, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique/INSU, Laboratoire Atmosphères Milieux Observations Spatiales-IPSL, Quartier des Garennes, 11 Boulevard d' Alembert, F-78280 Guyancourt (France); Schoenstein, F., E-mail: frederic.schoenstein@univ-paris13.fr [Université Paris 13, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Laboratoire des Sciences des Procédés et des Matériaux, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Propre de Recherche 3407, 99 avenue Jean Baptiste Clément, F-93430 Villetaneuse (France); Girard, A. [Office National d' Étude et de Recherches Aérospatiales, Laboratoire d' Étude des Microstructures, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Unité Mixte de Recherche 104, 29 avenue de la Division Leclerc, F-92322 Châtillon (France); and others

2014-11-14

Processing parameters of Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) technique were constrained to process nano sized silver particles bound in a paste for interconnection in power electronic devices. A novel strategy combining debinding step and consolidation processes (SPS) in order to elaborate nano-structured silver bulk material is investigated. Optimum parameters were sought for industrial power electronics packaging from the microstructural and morphological properties of the sintered material. The latter was studied by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) to determine the density and the grain size of crystallites. Two types of samples, termed S1 (bulk) and S2 (multilayer) were elaborated and characterized. They are homogeneous with a low degree of porosity and a good adhesion to the substrate and the process parameters are compatible with industrial constraints. As the experimental results show, the mean crystallite size is between 60 nm and 790 nm with a density between 50% and 92% resulting in mechanical and thermal properties that are better than that of lead free solder. The best SPS sintering parameters, the applied pressure, the temperature and the processing time were determined as being 3 MPa, 300 °C and 1 min respectively when the desizing time of the preprocessing step was kept below 5 min at 150 °C. Using these processing parameters, acceptable for automotive packaging industry, a semi-conductor power chip was successfully connected to a metalized substrate by sintered silver with thermal and electrical properties better than those of current solders and with thermomechanical properties allowing absorption of thermoplastic stresses. - Highlights: • The sintered silver joints have nanometric structure. • The grain growth was controlled by the SPS sintering parameters. • New connection material improve thermal and electrical properties of current solders. • Interconnection's plastic strain can absorb thermo

Influence of reinforcement weight fraction on microstructure and properties of submicron WC-Co{sub p}/Cu bulk MMCs prepared by direct laser sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gu, Dongdong [College of Materials Science and Technology, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, 29 Yudao Street, 210016 Nanjing (China)]. E-mail: dongdonggu@hotmail.com; Shen, Yifu [College of Materials Science and Technology, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, 29 Yudao Street, 210016 Nanjing (China)]. E-mail: yifushen@nuaa.edu.cn

2007-04-04

Direct metal laser sintering (DMLS), due to its flexibility in materials and shapes, exhibits a great potential for fabricating complex shaped bulk metal matrix composites (MMCs). In the present work, the submicron WC-10% Co particulate reinforced Cu matrix composites were prepared using DMLS. The influence of reinforcement content on the sintered densification and the attendant microstructures, e.g. the dispersion homogeneity of the reinforcing particulates and the interfacial bonding ability, was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy disperse X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, and atomic force microscope (AFM). It shows that using a low reinforcement content of 20 wt.% results in a poor densification with severe balling phenomena, due to a higher average composite coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) and a superheating of the melt. A heterogeneous microstructure with a significant particulate aggregation is obtained at a high reinforcement content of 40 wt.%, because of a limited liquid formation and the resultant high liquid viscosity and reduced Marangoni effect. Using an optimal reinforcement content of 30 wt.% leads to a uniform distribution of the reinforcing particulates and a compatible interfacial microstructure, so as to obtain a favorable sintered density of 90.3% theoretical density.

New materials through a variety of sintering methods

Science.gov (United States)

Jaworska, L.; Cyboroń, J.; Cygan, S.; Laszkiewicz-Łukasik, J.; Podsiadło, M.; Novak, P.; Holovenko, Y.

2018-03-01

New sintering techniques make it possible to obtain materials with special properties that are impossible to obtain by conventional sintering techniques. This issue is especially important for ceramic materials for application under extreme conditions. Following the tendency to limit critical materials in manufacturing processes, the use of W, Si, B, Co, Cr should be limited, also. One of the cheapest and widely available materials is aluminum oxide, which shows differences in phase composition, grain size, hardness, strain and fracture toughness of the same type of powder, sintered via various methods. In this paper the alumina was sintered using the conventional free sintering process, microwave sintering, Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS), high pressure-high temperature method (HP-HT) and High Pressure Spark Plasma Sintering (HP SPS). Phase composition analysis, by X-ray diffraction of the alumina materials sintered using various methods, was carried out. For the conventional sintering method, compacts are composed of α-Al2O3 and θ-Al2O3. For compacts sintered using SPS, microwave and HP-HT methods, χ-Al2O3 and γ-Al2O3 phases were additionally present. Mechanical and physical properties of the obtained materials were compared between the methods of sintering. On the basis of images from scanning electron microscope quantitative analysis was performed to determine the degree of grain growth of alumina after sintering.

Liquid Phase Sintering of (Ti,Zr)C with WC-Co.

Science.gov (United States)

Ma, Taoran; Borrajo-Pelaez, Rafael; Hedström, Peter; Blomqvist, Andreas; Borgh, Ida; Norgren, Susanne; Odqvist, Joakim

2017-01-11

(Ti,Zr)C powder was sintered with WC-Co following an industrial process, including an isotherm at 1410 °C. A series of interrupted sintering trials was performed with the aim of studying the sintering behavior and the microstructural evolution during both solid-state and liquid-state sintering. Reference samples, using the same elemental compositions but with the starting components TiC and ZrC instead of (Ti,Zr)C, were also sintered. The microstructure was investigated using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. It is found that the (Ti,Zr)C phase decomposes into Ti-rich and Zr-rich nano-scale lamellae before the liquid-state of the sintering initiates. The final microstructure consists of the binder and WC as well as two different γ phases, rich in either Ti (γ₁) or Zr (γ₂). The γ₂ phase grains have a core-shell structure with a (Ti,Zr)C core following the full sintering cycle. The major differences observed in (Ti,Zr)C with respect to the reference samples after the full sintering cycle were the referred core-shell structure and the carbide grain sizes; additionally, the microstructural evolution during sintering differs. The grain size of carbides (WC, γ₁, and γ₂) is about 10% smaller in WC-(Ti,Zr)C-Co than WC-TiC-ZrC-Co. The shrinkage behavior and hardness of both composites are reported and discussed.

Liquid Phase Sintering of (Ti,ZrC with WC-Co

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Taoran Ma

2017-01-01

Full Text Available (Ti,ZrC powder was sintered with WC-Co following an industrial process, including an isotherm at 1410 °C. A series of interrupted sintering trials was performed with the aim of studying the sintering behavior and the microstructural evolution during both solid-state and liquid-state sintering. Reference samples, using the same elemental compositions but with the starting components TiC and ZrC instead of (Ti,ZrC, were also sintered. The microstructure was investigated using scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. It is found that the (Ti,ZrC phase decomposes into Ti-rich and Zr-rich nano-scale lamellae before the liquid-state of the sintering initiates. The final microstructure consists of the binder and WC as well as two different γ phases, rich in either Ti (γ1 or Zr (γ2. The γ2 phase grains have a core-shell structure with a (Ti,ZrC core following the full sintering cycle. The major differences observed in (Ti,ZrC with respect to the reference samples after the full sintering cycle were the referred core-shell structure and the carbide grain sizes; additionally, the microstructural evolution during sintering differs. The grain size of carbides (WC, γ1, and γ2 is about 10% smaller in WC-(Ti,ZrC-Co than WC-TiC-ZrC-Co. The shrinkage behavior and hardness of both composites are reported and discussed.

Study on the effect of UO2 composition on dissolution of sintered (Th-U)O2 MOX by microwave heating

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Singh, G.; Malav, R.K.; Fulzele, A.K.; Prakash, A.; Afzal, Md.; Panakkal, J.P.

2010-01-01

Full text: Complete dissolution of sample is a prerequisite for any chemical analysis in liquid form. Dissolution of ThO 2 based mixed oxide sample like (Th-U)O 2 , (Th-Pu)O 2 is a challenging job due to single oxidation state of thorium (IV). The present paper describes a study carried out on effect of UO 2 composition on dissolution of sintered (Th-U)O 2 mixed oxide pellets, in 0.05M HF prepared in 16 M HNO 3 . The experiments were performed in PTFE pressure vessels which could stand up to ∼ 250 deg C and safely operated up to 120 psi in an indigenous 700 watts microwave digestion system. ThO 2 , ThO 2 -3.75%UO 2 and ThO 2 -5%UO 2 pellets (∼ 6 g each) were dissolved in 60 mL of 16M HNO 3 /HF mixtures (0.05M HF in 16 M HNO 3 ) in PTFE (teflon) made pressure vessels (each experiment triplicate) at a pressure of ∼ 120 psi. Samples (two at an instant) were withdrawn after each hour and Th in the solution was determined by EDTA complexometric titration where end point was detected visually. Table 1 shows the results of percent dissolution of Th (mean of three experiments) for the sintered pellet after each interval of time until 100% dissolution. The plot for percent dissolution of Th (mean Th %) against time taken for sintered pellets is shown. Application of microwave heating has been applied for the dissolution of uncrushed sintered ThO 2 and (Th-U)O 2 pellets. It is quite evident from Th% dissolved versus time curves that the dissolution is faster as percentage of UO 2 in (Th-U)O 2 MOX solid solution increases. This is attributed to UO 2 as it can easily absorb microwave energy, leading to high temperature

Effect Of DyMn Alloy-Powder Addition On Microstructure And Magnetic Properties Of NdFeB Sintered Magnets

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Lee M.-W.

2015-06-01

Full Text Available Micostructural change and corresponding effect on coercivity of a NdFeB sintered magnet mixed with small amount of DyMn powder was investigated. In the sintered magnet mixed with the DyMn alloy-powder Dy-rich shell was formed at outer layer of the main grains, while Mn was mostly concentrated at Nd-rich triple junction phase (TJP, lowering melting temperature of the Nd-rich phase that eventually improved the microstructural characteristics of the gain boundary phase. The coercivity of a magnet increased more than 3.5 kOe by the mixing of the DyMn alloy-powder.

Preparation and microstructure of hot-pressed YIG

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Abdul Halim Shaari; Mansor Hashim; Sidek Haji Abd Aziz

1992-01-01

Bulk magnetic ceramics such as yttrium-iron-garnet (YIG) and nickel-zinc ferrite were prepared by the conventional-firing and hot-press techniques. Pre-sintering and sintering, both in air, were carried out at temperature ≥ 1200 0 C. Initial density and microstructural measurements show that the high density samples with uniform grain size can be readily achieved by hot-pressing. The well-defined microstructures, the high density attained. The agreement of saturation magnetization 4πMs values and the high resistivities indicated that the optimized preparation conditions for conventional firing yielded yttrium-iron-garnet of good quality. Quenched and isochronally annealed, the YIG samples were also found to retain their room-temperature saturation-magnetization and resonance linewidth values after any single heat treatment. However, the electrical resistivity and the effective linewidth clearly exhibited isochronal recovery. A possible model to explain this behaviour and its implications on microwave applications are discussed. Ferrites of the type MFe 2 O 4 where M=Mg, Mn, Co, Fe, Cu, Zn and Cd and of the type Ni1-2xSnxFe 2 O4 have also been prepared and their properties are being studied

Production of sintered alumina from powder; optimization of the sinterized parameters for the maximum mechanical resistence

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rocha, J.C. da.

1981-02-01

Pure, sinterized alumina and the optimization of the parameters of sinterization in order to obtain the highest mechanical resistence are discussed. Test materials are sinterized from a fine powder of pure alumina (Al 2 O 3 ), α phase, at different temperatures and times, in air. The microstructures are analysed concerning porosity and grain size. Depending on the temperature or the time of sinterization, there is a maximum for the mechanical resistence. (A.R.H.) [pt

Spark plasma sintering and microstructural analysis of pure and Mo doped U3Si2 pellets

Science.gov (United States)

Lopes, Denise Adorno; Benarosch, Anna; Middleburgh, Simon; Johnson, Kyle D.

2017-12-01

U3Si2 has been considered as an alternative fuel for Light Water Reactors (LWRs) within the Accident Tolerant Fuels (ATF) initiative, begun after the Fukushima-Daiichi Nuclear accidents. Its main advantages are high thermal conductivity and high heavy metal density. Despite these benefits, U3Si2 presents an anisotropic crystallographic structure and low solubility of fission products, which can result in undesirable effects under irradiation conditions. In this paper, spark plasma sintering (SPS) of U3Si2 pellets is studied, with evaluation of the resulting microstructure. Additionally, exploiting the short sintering time in SPS, a molybdenum doped pellet was produced to investigate the early stages of the Mo-U3Si2 interaction, and analyze how this fission product is accommodated in the fuel matrix. The results show that pellets of U3Si2 with high density (>95% TD) can be obtained with SPS in the temperature range of 1200°C-1300 °C. Moreover, the short time employed in this technique was found to generate a unique microstructure for this fuel, composed mainly of closed nano-pores (uranium with small quantities of dissolved Si and Mo at the front of the reaction.

The influence of processing conditions on the microstructure and the mechanical properties of reaction sintered silicon nitride

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Heinrich, J.

1979-09-01

The microstructure of reaction sintered silicon nitride (RBSN) was changed in a wide range of varying green density, grain size of the silicon starting powder, nitriding conditions, and by introducing artificial pores. The influence of single microstructural parameters on mechanical properties like room temperature strength, creep behaviour, and resistance to thermal shock has been investigated. The essential factors influencing these properties were found to be total porosity, pore size distribution, and the fractions of α- and β-Si 3 N 4 . In view of high temperature engineering applications of RBSN possibilities to optimize the material's properties by controlled processing are discussed. (orig.) [de

Effects of LaB{sub 6} additions on the microstructure and mechanical properties of a sintered and hot worked P/M Ti alloy

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lou, Jia; Gabbitas, Brian, E-mail: briang@waikato.ac.nz; Yang, Fei; Raynova, Stella; Lu, Huiyang

2016-07-25

A trace amount of LaB{sub 6} powder was added to P/M Ti and Ti–6Al–4V alloy to improve mechanical properties and refine the microstructure. After sintering, TiB whiskers and La{sub 2}O{sub 3} dispersoids had formed in the microstructure. In a CP Ti alloy, the generation of secondary phases leads to a much refined microstructure, but the alignment of TiB whiskers led to a variation in mechanical properties. Open die forging (ODF) or powder compact extrusion (PCE) was carried out on sintered Ti–6Al–4V alloy to further improve the mechanical properties. This caused severe deformation and re-alignment of the TiB whiskers. Comparing the properties of hot worked Ti–6Al–4V alloy and Ti–6Al–4V alloy with boron additions, an addition of LaB{sub 6} leads to slightly lower strength but gives significant better ductility. - Highlights: • LaB{sub 6} powder was added to sintered and hot worked Ti and Ti–6Al–4V alloy. • TiB whiskers and La{sub 2}O{sub 3} dispersoids formed in the microstructure. • Different alignments of TiB{sub w} led to a variation in mechanical properties. • Hot working caused severe deformation and re-alignment of TiB{sub w}. • An addition of LaB{sub 6} is better than pure boron additions.

The influence of milling and spark plasma sintering on the microstructure and properties of the Al7075 alloy

Czech Academy of Sciences Publication Activity Database

Molnárová, O.; Málek, P.; Veselý, J.; Minárik, P.; Lukáč, František; Chráska, Tomáš; Novák, P.; Průša, F.

2018-01-01

Roč. 11, č. 4 (2018), č. článku 547. ISSN 1996-1944 R&D Projects: GA ČR(CZ) GA15-15609S Institutional support: RVO:61389021 Keywords : gas atomized Al7075 alloy * mechanical milling * spark plasma sintering * microstructure * microhardness Subject RIV: JG - Metallurgy Impact factor: 2.654, year: 2016

Microstructural characterisation of vacuum sintered T42 powder metallurgy high-speed steel after heat treatments

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Trabadelo, V.; Gimenez, S.; Iturriza, I.

2009-01-01

High-speed steel powders (T42 grade) have been uniaxially cold-pressed and vacuum sintered to full density. Subsequently, the material was heat treated following an austenitising + quenching + multitempering route or alternatively austenitising + isothermal annealing. The isothermal annealing route was designed in order to attain a hardness value of ∼50 Rockwell C (HRC) (adequate for structural applications) while the multitempering parameters were selected to obtain this value and also the maximum hardening of the material (∼66 HRC). Microstructural characterisation has been carried out by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The microstructure consists of a ferrous (martensitic or ferritic) matrix with a distribution of second phase particles corresponding to nanometric and submicrometric secondary carbides precipitated during heat treatment together with primary carbides. The identification of those secondary precipitates (mainly M 3 C, M 6 C and M 23 C 6 carbides) has allowed understanding the microstructural evolution of T42 high-speed steel under different processing conditions

Microstructure Evolution and Mechanical Properties Improvement in Liquid-Phase-Sintered Hydroxyapatite by Laser Sintering

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Songlin Duan

2015-03-01

Full Text Available CaO-Al2O3-SiO2 (CAS as a liquid phase was introduced into hydroxyapatite (HAp to prepare bone scaffolds. The effects of the CAS content (1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 wt% on microstructure and mechanical properties of HAp ceramics were investigated. The optimal compression strength, fracture toughness and Vickers hardness reached 22.22 MPa, 1.68 MPa·m1/2 and 4.47 GPa when 3 wt% CAS was added, which were increased by 105%, 63% and 11% compared with those of HAp ceramics without CAS, respectively. The improvement of the mechanical properties was attributed to the improved densification, which was caused by the solid particle to rearrange during liquid phase sintering. Moreover, simulated body fluid (SBF study indicated the HAp ceramics could maintain the mechanical properties and form a bone-like apatite layer when they were immersed in SBF. Cell culture was used to evaluate biocompatibility of the HAp ceramics. The results demonstrated MG-63 cells adhered and spread well.

Mechanical characteristics of microwave sintered silicon carbide

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

In firing of products by conventionally sintered process, SiC grain gets oxidized producing SiO2 (∼ 32 wt%) and deteriorates the quality of the product substantially. Partially sintered silicon carbide by such a method is a useful material for a varieties of applications ranging from kiln furniture to membrane material.

Microwave dielectric properties of low-fired Li_2TiO_3–MgO ceramics for LTCC applications

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ma, Jian-Li; Fu, Zhi-Fen; Liu, Peng; Wang, Bing; Li, Yang

2016-01-01

Graphical abstract: This figure gives the Q × f and τ_f of Li_2TiO_3–MgO ceramics sintered at various temperatures with different LiF contents. Addition of LiF enhanced the sinterability and optimized the microwave dielectric properties of Li_2TiO_3–MgO ceramics. The excellent microwave dielectric properties (ε_r = 15.8, Q × f = 64,500 GHz, and τ_f = −0.2 ppm/°C) of Li_2TiO_3–MgO ceramics sintered at 850 °C illustrated that LiF is a simple effective sintering aids for Li_2TiO_3–MgO ceramics. Such sample was compatible with Ag electrodes, suitable for the low-temperature co-fired ceramics (LTCC) applications. - Highlights: • Temperature stability of Li_2TiO_3 ceramics were improved by doping MgO. • The low-fired Li_2TiO_3–MgO ceramics are fabricated. • LiF liquid phase reduced sintering temperature of Li_2TiO_3–MgO ceramics to 850 °C. • The low-fired Li_2TiO_3–MgO ceramics possess well microwave dielectric properties. • The sample was compatible with Ag electrodes and suitable for LTCC applications. - Abstract: We fabricated the low-fired Li_2TiO_3–MgO ceramics doped with LiF by a conventional solid-state route, and investigated systematically their sintering characteristics, microstructures and microwave dielectric properties. The results showed that temperature stability of Li_2TiO_3 ceramics were improved by doping MgO. Well microwave dielectric properties for Li_2TiO_3–13 wt%MgO (LTM) ceramics with ε_r = 16.4, Q × f = 87,500 GHz, and τ_f = −1.2 ppm/°C were obtained at 1325 °C. Furthermore, addition of LiF enhanced the sinterability and optimized the microwave dielectric properties of LTM ceramics. A typically sample of LTM-4 wt%LiF ceramics with optimum dielectric properties (ε_r = 15.8, Q × f = 64,500 GHz, and τ_f = −0.2 ppm/°C) were achieved at 850 °C for 4 h. Such sample was compatible with Ag electrodes, suitable for the low-temperature co-fired ceramics (LTCC) applications.

Microstructural and Mechanical Properties of Porous 60NiTi Prepared by Conventional Press-and-sinter Method

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Khanlari Khashayar

2017-01-01

Full Text Available An intermetallic nickel-titanium alloy, 60NiTi, comprised of approximately 60 wt.% Ni and 40 wt.% Ti, contains a broad combination of physical and mechanical properties such as high hardness, low elastic modulus, resistance to aqueous corrosion and good biocompatibility. These unique combinations make this alloy an attractive candidate for medical components such as implants and prosthesis, where biocompatible materials with high hardness and low stiffness are typically used. The conventional press-and-sinter method which represents the least complex, most flexible and economic powder metallurgy method was used to produce porous 60NiTi parts suitable for biomedical applications. The effect of sintering holding time on the microstructure and mechanical properties is investigated. The structure of the as sintered parts is quite porous which is beneficial based on the medical point of view. The ultimate compressive strength of the samples is higher than that of the compact human bone and can, therefore, meet the strength demand of implants for general bone replacement applications.

Comparative Evaluations and Microstructure: Mechanical Property Relations of Sintered Silicon Carbide Consolidated by Various Techniques

Science.gov (United States)

Barick, Prasenjit; Chatterjee, Arya; Majumdar, Bhaskar; Saha, Bhaskar Prasad; Mitra, Rahul

2018-04-01

A comparative evaluation between pressureless or self-sintered silicon carbide (SSiC), hot-pressed silicon carbide (HP-SiC), and spark plasma-sintered silicon carbide (SPS-SiC) has been carried out with emphasis on examination of their microstructures and mechanical properties. The effect of sample dimensions on density and properties of SPS-SiC has been also examined. Elastic modulus, flexural strength, and fracture toughness measured by indentation or testing of single-edge notched beam specimens have been found to follow the following trend, HP-SiC > SSiC > SPS-SiC. The SPS-SiC samples have shown size-dependent densification and mechanical properties, with the smaller sample exhibiting superior properties. The mechanical properties of sintered SiC samples appear to be influenced by relative density, grain size, and morphology, as well as the existence of intergranular glassy phase. Studies of fracture surface morphologies have revealed the mechanism of failure to be transgranular in SSiC or HP-SiC, and intergranular in case of SPS-SiC, indicating the dominating influence of grain size and α-SiC formation with high aspect ratio.

Microstructural characteristics of low-temperature (1400°C sintered MgO obtained from seawater

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Jakić Jelena

2017-01-01

Full Text Available The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of a rinsing of Mg(OH2 precipitated from seawater by substoichiometric precipitation (80% precipitation and the addition of TiO2 on microstructural characteristics of the MgO obtained by sintering at low temperature (1400°C. The results of examination indicate that the method of rinsing of the magnesium hydroxide precipitate in the technological process of obtaining MgO from seawater significantly affects the chemical composition of samples, primarily with regard to the CaO and B2O3 content. The samples were doped with TiO2 to improve the evaporation of B2O3 and sintering of MgO samples that were characterized by XRD and SEM/EDS. These techniques confirmed the high purity of MgO samples obtained and the formation of secondary compounds in very small quantities that have a positive effect on the densification.

A study of emission property and microstructure of rare earth oxide-molybdenum cermet cathode materials made by spark plasma sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wang Jinshu; Li Hongyi; Yang Sa; Cui Ying; Zhou Meiling

2004-01-01

A fast sintering method, spark plasma sintering (SPS) was used for the synthesis of rare earth oxide-molybdenum cathode material. The secondary emission property, microstructure, and phase constitution of materials have been studied in this paper. The experimental results show that the maximum secondary emission coefficient of this material can be high to 3.84, much higher than that of rare earth oxide-molybdenum cathode made by traditional sintering method. The grain size is less than 1 μm and rare earth distributed evenly in the material. After the material was activated at 1600 deg. C, a 4 μm layer of rare earth oxide which leads to the high secondary emission coefficient of the material, is formed on the surface of the cathode

Relations microstructure - magnetic properties - squareness factor of PrFeB and NdFeB sintered magnets prepared with hydrogen

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Perigo, Elio Alberto

2009-01-01

In this work, it has firstly been evaluated the preparation of Pr 16 Fe 76 B 8 sintered permanent magnets (% at.) by means of high-energy milling using a planetary ball mill. The influence of both milling speed and time has been verified. The best magnetic properties [J R = (1.02 ± 0.02) T, μ 0J H c = (1.42 ± 0.03) T and (BH) max = (200 ± 4) kJm -3 ] have been found for a permanent magnet prepared with the magnetic alloy milled during 75 minutes using a rotational milling speed of 200 rpm. In order to improve the remanence, the hydrogen decrepitation process time has been reduced from 60 minutes to 2 minutes. In this case, it has been obtained a sintered magnet with J R = (1.14 ± 0.02) T, μ 0J H c = (1.44 ± 0.03) T and (BH) max = (250 ± 5) kJm -3 due to the improvement of crystallographic alignment of the hard magnetic phase. During such investigation, a new methodology to quantify the parameter has been developed. Subsequently, for the first time, a quantitative correlation between the microstructure and the squareness factor in anisotropic sintered RE 16 Fe 76 B 8 (RE = Nd or Pr) magnets has been proposed. The presented expression utilizes the mean size, the mean elongation and the mean roundness of the hard magnetic grains as well as their respective standard deviations. The squareness factor can be improved with a microstructure with rounder grains and with a sharp grain size distribution. The grain size homogeneity is more important to enhance the squareness factor compared to grain shape homogeneity. Furthermore, it has also been verified that the annealing after sintering improves the grain shape homogeneity and the milling enhances the grain size homogeneity. Moreover, the effect of the temperature on the squareness factor of anisotropic sintered magnets has also been evaluated. Such parameter is mainly controlled by the sample's microstructure, in agreement with the proposed expression. Furthermore, a quantitative correlation between the maximum

Electromagnetic characterization of microwave sintered Sr1-xCaxMnO3 (0.0 ≤ x ≤ 0.4 thick films

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Rani P. Pawar

2013-03-01

Full Text Available Electromagnetic characteristics of microwave sintered strontium calcium manganites thick film with variation in calcium content have been investigated. The X-ray diffraction analysis reveals tetragonal perovskite structure for all the compositions. The grain size increases with the increase in calcium content. The microwave absorption, complex permittivity, permeability and conductivity are reported in the frequency range of 8.2–18 GHz. The absorption loss is larger in Ku band while insertion loss is larger in X band. The permittivity, permeability and microwave conductivity decreases from X-band to Ku-band. The almost identical values of real part of permittivity and permeability indicate possible application as materials for impedance matching.

Effects of thermal treatments on microstructure and mechanical properties of a Co-Cr-Mo-W biomedical alloy produced by laser sintering.

Science.gov (United States)

Mengucci, P; Barucca, G; Gatto, A; Bassoli, E; Denti, L; Fiori, F; Girardin, E; Bastianoni, P; Rutkowski, B; Czyrska-Filemonowicz, A

2016-07-01

Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS) technology based on a layer by layer production process was used to produce a Co-Cr-Mo-W alloy specifically developed for biomedical applications. The alloy mechanical response and microstructure were investigated in the as-sintered state and after post-production thermal treatments. Roughness and hardness measurements, and tensile and flexural tests were performed to study the mechanical response of the alloy while X-ray diffraction (XRD), electron microscopy (SEM, TEM, STEM) techniques and microanalysis (EDX) were used to investigate the microstructure in different conditions. Results showed an intricate network of ε-Co (hcp) lamellae in the γ-Co (fcc) matrix responsible of the high UTS and hardness values in the as-sintered state. Thermal treatments increase volume fraction of the ε-Co (hcp) martensite but slightly modify the average size of the lamellar structure. Nevertheless, thermal treatments are capable of producing a sensible increase in UTS and hardness and a strong reduction in ductility. These latter effects were mainly attributed to the massive precipitation of an hcp Co3(Mo,W)2Si phase and the contemporary formation of Si-rich inclusions. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Synthesis, microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti3SiC2-TiC composites pulse discharge sintered from Ti/Si/TiC powder mixture

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tian Wubian; Sun Zhengming; Hashimoto, Hitoshi; Du Yulei

2009-01-01

Ti 3 SiC 2 -TiC composites with the volume fractions of TiC from 0 to 90% were fabricated by pulse discharge sintering (PDS) technique using Ti-Si-TiC as starting powders in the sintering temperature range of 1250-1400 deg. C. Phase content and microstructure of the synthesized samples were analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The samples sintered at 1400 deg. C are almost fully dense for all compositions with relative density higher than 98%. The phase distribution in the synthesized samples is non-uniform. The Vickers hardness increases almost linearly with the volume fraction of TiC up to a value of 20.1 ± 1.4 GPa at 90 vol.% TiC. The flexural strength increases with the volume fraction of TiC to a maximum value of 655 ± 10 MPa at 50 vol.% TiC. The relationship between microstructure and mechanical properties is discussed.

Phase Transformation of Andalusite-Mullite and Its Roles in the Microstructure and Sinterability of Refractory Ceramic

Science.gov (United States)

Li, Bowen; He, Mengsheng; Wang, Huaguang

2017-07-01

Andalusite has been realized as a special mineral for the production of refractory ceramics due to its unique property to automatically decompose into mullite and silica during heating at high temperature. The phase transformation from andalusite to mullite plays a critical role for the effective applications of andalusite. This study investigated the microstructural characteristics and sinterability of andalusite powder during high-temperature decomposition. The andalusite powder was bonded with kaolin and prepared as a cylinder green body at 20 MPa; it was then fired at 1423 K to 1723 K (1150 °C to 1450 °C). The microstructures and mechanical strengths of the sintered ceramics were studied by the compressive test, X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that newly born mullite appeared as rodlike microcrystals and dispersed around the initial andalusite. At 1423 K (1150 °C), the mullitization of andalusite was started, but the complete mullitization was not found until firing at 1723 K (1450 °C). The compressive strength of the ceramics increased from 93.7 to 294.6 MPa while increasing the fire temperature from 1423 K to 1723 K (1150 °C to 1450 °C). Meanwhile, the bulk density of the ceramics was only slightly changed from 2.15 to 2.19 g/cm3.

Effect of sintering conditions on the microstructural and mechanical characteristics of porous magnesium materials prepared by powder metallurgy.

Science.gov (United States)

Čapek, Jaroslav; Vojtěch, Dalibor

2014-02-01

There has recently been an increased demand for porous magnesium materials in many applications, especially in the medical field. Powder metallurgy appears to be a promising approach for the preparation of such materials. Many works have dealt with the preparation of porous magnesium; however, the effect of sintering conditions on material properties has rarely been investigated. In this work, we investigated porous magnesium samples that were prepared by powder metallurgy using ammonium bicarbonate spacer particles. The effects of the purity of the argon atmosphere and sintering time on the microstructure (SEM, EDX and XRD) and mechanical behaviour (universal loading machine and Vickers hardness tester) of porous magnesium were studied. The porosities of the prepared samples ranged from 24 to 29 vol.% depending on the sintering conditions. The purity of atmosphere played a significant role when the sintering time exceeded 6h. Under a gettered argon atmosphere, a prolonged sintering time enhanced diffusion connections between magnesium particles and improved the mechanical properties of the samples, whereas under a technical argon atmosphere, oxidation at the particle surfaces caused deterioration in the mechanical properties of the samples. These results suggest that a refined atmosphere is required to improve the mechanical properties of porous magnesium. © 2013.

XRD analysis and microstructure of milled and sintered V, W, C, and Co powders

CSIR Research Space (South Africa)

Bolokang, AS

2011-01-01

Full Text Available on the starting compositions of pure elements, their lattice coherency according to Hume-Rothery rules on crystal structure and atomic size, and enough milling time that provides adequate kinetics. Keywords ? X-ray analysis; ? (V,W)C; ? Co15W8C6...-1 International Journal of Refractory Metals and Hard Materials Volume 29, Issue 1, January 2011, Pages 108?111 XRD analysis and microstructure of milled and sintered V, W, C, and Co powders ? A.S. Bolokang ? M.J. Phasha ? C. Oliphant ? D. Motaung ? a...

Mechanical characteristics of microwave sintered silicon carbide

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Unknown

sintered process, SiC grain gets oxidized producing SiO2 (∼ 32 wt%) and deteriorates the quality of the product substantially. Partially sintered .... product, could be due to oxidation of SiC, e.g. 50% weight gain of a green SiC sample ... because, the charging current is 90° advanced in phase, ideally, with respect to the ...

Evolution of microstructure of U-Mo alloys in as cast and sintered forms

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sinha, V.P.; Hegde, P.V.; Prasad, G.J.; Kamath, H.S.; Dey, G.K.

2009-01-01

Over the years U 3 Si 2 compound dispersed in aluminium matrix has been successfully used as potential Low Enriched Uranium (LEU 235 ) base dispersion fuel in new research and test reactors and also for converting High Enriched Uranium (HEU > 85% U 235 ) cores to LEU in most of the existing research and test reactors. The maximum density achievable with U 3 Si 2 -AI dispersion fuel is around 4.8 g U cm -3 . To achieve a uranium density of 8.0 to 9.0 g U cm -3 in dispersion fuel with aluminium as matrix material, it is required to use γ-stabilized uranium metal powders. At Metallic Fuels Division, R and D efforts are on to develop these high density uranium alloys. Molybdenum plays a crucial role in metastabilising the γ-phase of uranium at room temperature which is very much evident when we see the microstructures of different U-Mo alloys with varying molybdenum concentration as solute atom. The paper describes the role of molybdenum in imparting metastability in U-Mo alloys from their microstructures in as cast and sintered forms. The paper also covers the role of tailored microstructure in U-Mo alloy for the purpose of hydriding and dehydriding treatment to generate alloy powders. (author)

Effects of Sintering and Extrusion on the Microstructures and Mechanical Properties of a SiC/Al-Cu Composite

Science.gov (United States)

Sun, Chao; Shen, Rujuan; Song, Min

2012-03-01

This article studied the effects of sintering and extrusion on the microstructures and mechanical properties of SiC particle reinforced Al-Cu alloy composite produced by powder metallurgy method. It has been shown that both extrusion and increasing sintering temperature can significantly improve the strength and plasticity of the composite. The extrusion and increase of the sintering temperature can break up the oxide coating on the matrix powder surfaces, decrease the number of pores, accelerate the elements' diffusion and increase the density and particle interfacial bonding strength, thus significantly improve the mechanical properties of the composite. The strength and hardness of the composite increase and the elongation decreases with increasing the aging time at under-aged stage, while the strength and hardness start to decrease and the elongation starts to increase with increasing the aging time at over-aged stage due to the formation and growth of the secondary strengthening precipitates in the Al-Cu matrix.

Microstructures and mechanical properties of Cu/Ti{sub 3}SiC{sub 2}/C/MWCNTs composites prepared by vacuum hot-pressing sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Xiaosong, Jiang, E-mail: xsjiang@yeah.net [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031 (China); Liu, Wanxia; Li, Jingrui [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031 (China); Shao, Zhenyi [Department of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu Technological University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031 (China); Zhu, Degui [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan 610031 (China)

2015-01-05

Highlights: • Cu/Ti{sub 3}SiC{sub 2}/C/MWCNTs composites were prepared using vacuum hot-pressing sintering. • Dispersions of MWCNTs were prepared using 10 μg/ml gallic acid aqueous solution. • MWCNTs content has no effect on generation of TiC and Cu{sub 9}Si to effect matrix’s performance. - Abstract: Cu/Ti{sub 3}SiC{sub 2}/C/MWCNTs composites were prepared by vacuum hot-pressing sintering. Microstructures and mechanical properties of Cu/Ti{sub 3}SiC{sub 2}/C/MWCNTs composites with different multi-walled carbon nanotubes contents have been systematically investigated. The microstructures of the composites were examined by optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction, back scattered electron imaging, scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectrometer. The mechanical properties were determined from Brinell hardness and tensile tests. The results demonstrated that there was an optimum value of MWCNTs content which has an impact on microstructures and mechanical properties of Cu/Ti{sub 3}SiC{sub 2}/C/MWCNTs composites. Based on MWCNTs content on properties and microstructure of Cu/Ti{sub 3}SiC{sub 2}/C/MWCNTs composites, effects of MWCNTs on improvement of the composites and strengthening mechanism have been analyzed.

Critical issues and future directions in sintering science

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Brook, R.J.; Tuan, W.H.; Xue, L.A.

1988-01-01

The quality of available powders and the emphasis on direct microstructural observation have continued to improve the value of sintering studies for the processing of ceramics. Future concerns will relate to mechanisms for the correction of microstructural inhomogeneity so that pressureless processing of composites can be reliably achieved and to more systematic exploitation of dopants (sintering additives). These themes are illustrated using examples from the processing of alumina composites and doped barium titanate compositions

U3O8 microspheres sintering kinetics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Godoy, A.L.E.

1986-01-01

U 3 O 8 microspheres sintering kinetics was determined using a hot-stage optical microscopy apparatus, able to reach temperature up to 1350 0 C in controlled atmospheres. The sintered material had its microstructure analysed by optical and electron microscopy. The microspheres were characterized initialy utilizing X-ray diffractometry and thermogravimetry. The equation which describes the microspheres shrinkage in function of the time was obtained using finite difference analysis X-ray diffractometry indicated hexagonal structure for the microspheres main starting material, ammonium diuranate thermogravimetric analysis showed reduction of this material to U 3 O 8 at 600 0 C. Ceramography results showed 5 hours sintered microspheres grain sizes G vary with the temperature. Sintered U 3 O 8 micrographs compared with published results for UO 2 , indicate similar homogeneity microstructural characteristics and suggest the processed micorspheres to be potentially useful as nuclear fuels. (Author) [pt

Effect of Sintering Atmosphere and Solution Treatment on Density, Microstructure and Tensile Properties of Duplex Stainless Steels Developed from Pre-alloyed Powders

Science.gov (United States)

Murali, Arun Prasad; Mahendran, Sudhahar; Ramajayam, Mariappan; Ganesan, Dharmalingam; Chinnaraj, Raj Kumar

2017-10-01

In this research, Powder Metallurgy (P/M) of Duplex Stainless Steels (DSS) of different compositions were prepared through pre-alloyed powders and elemental powders with and without addition of copper. The powder mix was developed by pot mill for 12 h to obtain the homogeneous mixture of pre-alloyed powder with elemental compositions. Cylindrical green compacts with the dimensions of 30 mm diameter and 12 mm height were compacted through universal testing machine at a pressure level of 560 ± 10 MPa. These green compacts were sintered at 1350 °C for 2 h in hydrogen and argon atmospheres. Some of the sintered stainless steel preforms were solution treated at 1050 °C followed by water quenching. The sintered as well as solution treated samples were analysed by metallography examination, Scanning Electron Microscopy and evaluation of mechanical properties. Ferrite content of sintered and solution treated DSS were measured by Fischer Ferritoscope. It is inferred that the hydrogen sintered DSS depicted better density (94% theoretical density) and tensile strength (695 MPa) than the argon sintered steels. Similarly the microstructure of solution treated DSS revealed existence of more volume of ferrite grains than its sintered condition. Solution treated hydrogen sintered DSS A (50 wt% 316L + 50 wt% 430L) exhibited higher tensile strength of 716 MPa and elongation of 17%, which are 10-13% increment than the sintered stainless steels.

Microstructural and electrical properties of cordierite-based ceramics obtained after two-step sintering technique

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Obradović Nina

2016-01-01

Full Text Available Cordierite-based ceramic materials are attracting much interest for their various applications in industry, for manufacturing multilayer circuit boards, catalytic converters, filters, thermal insulation, kiln furniture, components of portable electronic devices, etc. In order to reduce production costs and modify cordierite-based materials, mechanical activation can be used. In this study, microstructural and electrical properties of mechanically activated MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 system have been analyzed. The mixtures of MgO-Al2O3-SiO2 powders were mechanically activated in a planetary ball mill for the time periods from 0 to 160 min. Morphological investigations have been performed on the obtained powders. The effects of activation and two-step sintering process on microstructure were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM. Electrical measurements showed variations of the dielectric constant (εr and loss tangent (tan δ as a function of time of mechanical treatment.

Enhanced performance of nano-sized SiC reinforced Al metal matrix nanocomposites synthesized through microwave sintering and hot extrusion techniques

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

M. Penchal Reddy

2017-10-01

Full Text Available In the present study, nano-sized SiC (0, 0.3, 0.5, 1.0 and 1.5 vol% reinforced aluminum (Al metal matrix composites were fabricated by microwave sintering and hot extrusion techniques. The structural (XRD, SEM, mechanical (nanoindentation, compression, tensile and thermal properties (co-efficient of thermal expansion-CTE of the developed Al-SiC nanocomposites were studied. The SEM/EDS mapping images show a homogeneous distribution of SiC nanoparticles into the Al matrix. A significant increase in the strength (compressive and tensile of the Al-SiC nanocomposites with the addition of SiC content is observed. However, it is noticed that the ductility of Al-SiC nanocomposites decreases with increasing volume fraction of SiC. The thermal analysis indicates that CTE of Al-SiC nanocomposites decreases with the progressive addition of hard SiC nanoparticles. Overall, hot extruded Al 1.5 vol% SiC nanocomposites exhibited the best mechanical and thermal performance as compared to the other developed Al-SiC nanocomposites. Keywords: Al-SiC nanocomposites, Microwave sintering, Hot extrusion, Mechanical properties, Thermal expansion

Effect of sintering temperature on the microstructure and properties of foamed glass-ceramics prepared from high-titanium blast furnace slag and waste glass

Science.gov (United States)

Chen, Chang-hong; Feng, Ke-qin; Zhou, Yu; Zhou, Hong-ling

2017-08-01

Foamed glass-ceramics were prepared via a single-step sintering method using high-titanium blast furnace slag and waste glass as the main raw materials The influence of sintering temperature (900-1060°C) on the microstructure and properties of foamed glass-ceramics was studied. The results show that the crystal shape changed from grainy to rod-shaped and finally turned to multiple shapes as the sintering temperature was increased from 900 to 1060°C. With increasing sintering temperature, the average pore size of the foamed glass-ceramics increased and subsequently decreased. By contrast, the compressive strength and the bulk density decreased and subsequently increased. An excessively high temperature, however, induced the coalescence of pores and decreased the compressive strength. The optimal properties, including the highest compressive strength (16.64 MPa) among the investigated samples and a relatively low bulk density (0.83 g/cm3), were attained in the case of the foamed glass-ceramics sintered at 1000°C.

Sintering and microstructure evolution in columnar thermal barrier coatings

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Krishnamurthy, Ramanathan; Srolovitz, David J.

2009-01-01

Sintering of thermal barrier coatings changes their key properties, such as thermal conductivity and thermal shock resistance, thus adversely impacting their reliability. We present a novel modeling approach to study the evolution of coating structure during sintering. We model the sintering of individual columns using a thermodynamic principle, and incorporate the center-to-center approach rates for the columns calculated using this principle in a larger scale discrete dynamics model for the evolution of a large number of columns. Surface energies, grain boundary energies and strain energies associated with the deformation of the columns are all included in this framework, while sintering is assumed to occur by the concerted action of surface and grain boundary diffusion. Two sets of initial conditions corresponding to different extents of pre-sintering among neighboring columns are considered. When the extent of pre-sintering is small, we observe that small clusters containing 5-20 columns are formed. In contrast, where a larger amount of pre-sintering exists, we observe, especially at large column densities, that clusters containing 50-100 columns separated by large inter-cluster pores/channels that appear to organize themselves into a network are formed. These observations are in good agreement with recently published experimental observations. We also explain how these results can explain the development of a 'mud-crack'-like pattern

Microstructure and mechanical properties of nickel coated multi walled carbon nanotube reinforced stainless steel 316L matrix composites by laser sintering process

Science.gov (United States)

Mahanthesha, P.; Mohankumar, G. C.

2018-04-01

Electroless Ni coated Multi-walled Carbon nanotubes reinforced with Stainless Steel 316L matrix composite was developed by Direct Metal Laser Sintering process (DMLS). Homogeneous mixture of Stainless Steel 316L powder and carbon nanotubes in different vol. % was obtained by using double cone blender machine. Characterization of electroless Ni coated carbon nanotubes was done by using X-ray diffraction, FESEM and EDS. Test samples were fabricated at different laser scan speeds. Effect of process parameters and CNT vol. % content on solidification microstructure and mechanical properties of test samples was investigated by using Optical microscopy, FESEM, and Hounsfield tensometer. Experimental results reveal DMLS process parameters affect the density and microstructure of sintered parts. Dense parts with minimum porosity when processed at low laser scan speeds and low CNT vol. %. Tensile fractured surface of test specimens evidences the survival of carbon nanotubes under high temperature processing condition.

Influence of sintering temperature on mechanical properties of spark plasma sintered pre-alloyed Ti-6Al-4 V powder

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Muthuchamy, A.; Patel, Paridh; Rajadurai, M. [VIT Univ., Vellore, Tamil Nadu (India); Chaurisiya, Jitendar K. [NIT, Suratkal (India); Annamalai, A. Raja [VIT Univ., Vellore, Tamil Nadu (India). Centre for Innovative Manufacturing Research

2018-04-01

Spark plasma sintering provides faster heating that can create fully, or near fully, dense samples without significant grain growth. In this study, pre-alloyed Ti-6Al-4 V powder compact samples produced through field assisted sintering in a spark plasma sintering machine are compared as a function of consolidation temperature. The effect of sintering temperature on the densification mechanism, microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of spark plasma sintered Ti-6Al-4 V alloy compacts was investigated in detail. The compact, sintered at 1100 C, exhibited near net density, highest hardness and strength as compared to the other compacts processed at a temperature lower than 1100 C.

Microstructural designs of spark-plasma sintered silicon carbide ceramic scaffolds

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Román-Manso, B.

2014-04-01

Full Text Available Concentrated ceramic inks based on β-SiC powders, with different amounts of Y2O3 and Al2O3 as sintering aids, are developed for the adequate production of SiC scaffolds, with different patterned morphologies, by the Robocasting technique. The densifi cation of the as-produced 3D structures, previously heat treated in air at 600 ºC for the organics burn-out, is achieved with a Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS furnace. The effects of the amount of sintering additives (7 - 20 wt. % and the size of the SiC powders (50 nm and 0.5 μm on the processing of the inks, microstructure, hardness and elastic modulus of the sintered scaffolds, are studied. The use of nano-sized β-SiC powders significantly restricts the attainable maximum solids volume fraction of the ink (0.32 compared to 0.44 of the submicron-sized powders-based ink, involving a much larger porosity of the green ceramic bodies. Furthermore, reduced amounts of additives improve the mechanical properties of the ceramic skeleton; particularly, the stiffness. The grain size and specific surface area of the starting powders, the ink solids content, green porosity, amount of sintering additives and SPS temperatures are the main parameters to be taken into account for the production of these SiC cellular ceramics.Se han fabricado andamiajes de carburo de silicio (SiC usando la técnica de “Robocasting”, a partir de tintas cerámicas conteniendo β-SiC y distintas cantidades de Y2O3 and Al2O3, como aditivos de sinterización. La densificación de las estructuras tridimensionales, previamente calcinadas a 600 ºC para eliminar los aditivos orgánicos, se realizó en un horno de “Spark Plasma Sintering” (SPS. Se analizó el efecto de la cantidad de aditivos de sinterización (7-20 % en peso y del tamaño de partícula inicial del polvo de SiC (50 nm y 0.5 μm en el procesado de las tintas, en la microestructura, la dureza y el módulo elástico de las estructuras sinterizadas. El uso de polvo

Structural and magnetic Ni-Zn ferrite synthesized by combustion reaction and sintered in a conventional oven

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vieira, D.A.; Diniz, V.C.S.; Costa, A.C.F.M.; Kiminami, R.H.G.A.; Cornejo, D.R.

2011-01-01

The Ni-Zn ferrite due to their electrical and magnetic properties allows use in various technological applications. These properties can be controlled through appropriate choice of chemical composition, structural characteristics and morphology of the powders used and the techniques used for sintering. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the sintering in a conventional oven at a temperature of 1200 deg C/2h samples of Ni-Zn ferrite synthesized by microwave energy. The samples were characterized by density measurement, XRD, SEM and magnetic measurements. The results indicate the phase formation of Ni-Zn ferrite crystalline phase with crystallite size of 80 nm. The sample was heterogeneous microstructure with grain size of about 1 μm high intergranular porosity. The sample showed the saturation magnetization of 7.57 emu/g, coercive field and remanent magnetization close to zero, thus indicating a behavior characteristic of superparamagnetic materials. (author)

Microstructure and mechanical behavior of direct metal laser sintered Inconel alloy 718

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Smith, Derek H. [Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824 (United States); Bicknell, Jonathan; Jorgensen, Luke [Turbocam Energy Solutions, Turbocam International, Dover, NH 03820 (United States); Patterson, Brian M.; Cordes, Nikolaus L. [Materials Science Division, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Los Alamos, NM 87545 (United States); Tsukrov, Igor [Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824 (United States); Knezevic, Marko, E-mail: marko.knezevic@unh.edu [Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of New Hampshire, Durham, NH 03824 (United States)

2016-03-15

In this paper, we investigate microstructure and quasi-static mechanical behavior of the direct metal laser sintered Inconel 718 superalloy as a function of build direction (BD). The printed material was further processed by annealing and double-aging, hot isostatic pressing (HIP), and machining. We characterize porosity fraction and distribution using micro X-ray computed tomography (μXCT), grain structure and crystallographic texture using electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD), and mechanical response in quasi-static tension and compression using standard mechanical testing at room temperature. Analysis of the μXCT imaging shows that majority of porosity develops in the outer layer of the printed material. However, porosity inside the material is also present. The EBSD measurements reveal formation of columnar grains, which favor < 001 > fiber texture components along the BD. These measurements also show evidence of coarse-grained microstructure present in the samples treated by HIP. Finally, analysis of grain boundaries reveal that HIP results in a large number of annealing twins compared to that in samples that underwent annealing and double-aging. The yield strength varies with the testing direction by approximately 7%, which is governed by a combination of grain morphology and crystallographic texture. In particular, we determine tension–compression asymmetry in the yield stress as well as anisotropy of the material flow during compression. We find that HIP lowers yield stress but improves ductility relative to the annealed and aged material. These results are discussed and critically compared with the data reported for wrought material in the same condition. - Highlights: • Microstructure and mechanical properties of DMLS Inconel 718 are studied in function of build direction. • Inhomogeneity of microstructure in the material in several conditions is quantified by μXCT and EBSD. • Anisotropy and asymmetry in the mechanical response are

Microstructure and mechanical behavior of direct metal laser sintered Inconel alloy 718

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Smith, Derek H.; Bicknell, Jonathan; Jorgensen, Luke; Patterson, Brian M.; Cordes, Nikolaus L.; Tsukrov, Igor; Knezevic, Marko

2016-01-01

In this paper, we investigate microstructure and quasi-static mechanical behavior of the direct metal laser sintered Inconel 718 superalloy as a function of build direction (BD). The printed material was further processed by annealing and double-aging, hot isostatic pressing (HIP), and machining. We characterize porosity fraction and distribution using micro X-ray computed tomography (μXCT), grain structure and crystallographic texture using electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD), and mechanical response in quasi-static tension and compression using standard mechanical testing at room temperature. Analysis of the μXCT imaging shows that majority of porosity develops in the outer layer of the printed material. However, porosity inside the material is also present. The EBSD measurements reveal formation of columnar grains, which favor fiber texture components along the BD. These measurements also show evidence of coarse-grained microstructure present in the samples treated by HIP. Finally, analysis of grain boundaries reveal that HIP results in a large number of annealing twins compared to that in samples that underwent annealing and double-aging. The yield strength varies with the testing direction by approximately 7%, which is governed by a combination of grain morphology and crystallographic texture. In particular, we determine tension–compression asymmetry in the yield stress as well as anisotropy of the material flow during compression. We find that HIP lowers yield stress but improves ductility relative to the annealed and aged material. These results are discussed and critically compared with the data reported for wrought material in the same condition. - Highlights: • Microstructure and mechanical properties of DMLS Inconel 718 are studied in function of build direction. • Inhomogeneity of microstructure in the material in several conditions is quantified by μXCT and EBSD. • Anisotropy and asymmetry in the mechanical response are determined by

Microwave processing of a dental ceramic used in computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing.

Science.gov (United States)

Pendola, Martin; Saha, Subrata

2015-01-01

Because of their favorable mechanical properties and natural esthetics, ceramics are widely used in restorative dentistry. The conventional ceramic sintering process required for their use is usually slow, however, and the equipment has an elevated energy consumption. Sintering processes that use microwaves have several advantages compared to regular sintering: shorter processing times, lower energy consumption, and the capacity for volumetric heating. The objective of this study was to test the mechanical properties of a dental ceramic used in computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) after the specimens were processed with microwave hybrid sintering. Density, hardness, and bending strength were measured. When ceramic specimens were sintered with microwaves, the processing times were reduced and protocols were simplified. Hardness was improved almost 20% compared to regular sintering, and flexural strength measurements suggested that specimens were approximately 50% stronger than specimens sintered in a conventional system. Microwave hybrid sintering may preserve or improve the mechanical properties of dental ceramics designed for CAD/CAM processing systems, reducing processing and waiting times.

Reactive Sintering of Bimodal WC-Co Hardmetals

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Marek Tarraste

2015-09-01

Full Text Available Bimodal WC-Co hardmetals were produced using novel technology - reactive sintering. Milled and activated tungsten and graphite powders were mixed with commercial coarse grained WC-Co powder and then sintered. The microstructure of produced materials was free of defects and consisted of evenly distributed coarse and fine tungsten carbide grains in cobalt binder. The microstructure, hardness and fracture toughness of reactive sintered bimodal WC-Co hardmetals is exhibited. Developed bimodal hardmetal has perspective for demanding wear applications for its increased combined hardness and toughness. Compared to coarse material there is only slight decrease in fracture toughness (K1c is 14.7 for coarse grained and 14.4 for bimodal, hardness is increased from 1290 to 1350 HV units.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ms.21.3.7511

Effect of sintering time on structural, microstructural and chemical composition of Ni-doped lanthanum gallate perovskites

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Colomer, M.T.; Kilner, J.A.

2015-01-01

This work reports the effect of two different sintering times, 6 and 48 h on the structural, microstructural, and chemical features of Ni-doped La 0.90 Sr 0.10 GaO 3.00−δ . Independently of the sintering time, La 0.90 Sr 0.10 Ga 1−x Ni x O 3.00−δ (where x=0.10, and 0.20 (mol)) presents a rhombohedral symmetry with a lattice volume that decreases when NiO dopant increases. Besides the perovskite, LaSrGa 3.00 O 7.00 (nominal composition) is present as second phase in all cases. When the samples are doped with NiO, the peaks of this second phase are shifted with respect to the peaks of the pure phase. These shifts suggest that this second phase could admit some Ni ions in its structure. According to the XRD patterns, the amount of the latter phase is larger when sintering time is increased. Electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) indicated that the matrix of the samples sintered for 6 h is constituted by a perovskite with an experimental composition very close to the nominal one. However, when the samples are sintered for 48 h the matrix of each sample is constituted by two perovskites; both with compositional deviations with respect to their nominal one. In particular, a significant Sr depletion compensated by a La increment in the A site is observed. Those compositional deviations could be mainly due to the diffusion of the cations in the bulk and/or from the bulk to the surface of the samples. That diffusion can favour the formation, not only, of a second perovskite with a different composition in relation with the first one formed, but also, the formation of second phases. In addition, a very slight broadening of Bragg peaks of the perovskites sintered for 48 h is observed by XRD and can be related to the presence of two different perovskites in each sample according to EPMA results. By BSEM and EPMA analyses La 4.00 Ga 2.00 O 9.00 (nominal composition) is also observed as second phase when samples are treated for 48 h. - Graphical abstract: Typical

Effect of sintering time on structural, microstructural and chemical composition of Ni-doped lanthanum gallate perovskites

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Colomer, M.T., E-mail: tcolomer@icv.csic.es [Instituto de Cerámica y Vidrio, CSIC, C/ Kelsen no. 5, 28049 Madrid (Spain); Kilner, J.A. [Department of Materials, Imperial College, Prince Consort Road, London SW7 2BP (United Kingdom)

2015-08-15

This work reports the effect of two different sintering times, 6 and 48 h on the structural, microstructural, and chemical features of Ni-doped La{sub 0.90}Sr{sub 0.10}GaO{sub 3.00−δ}. Independently of the sintering time, La{sub 0.90}Sr{sub 0.10}Ga{sub 1−x}Ni{sub x}O{sub 3.00−δ} (where x=0.10, and 0.20 (mol)) presents a rhombohedral symmetry with a lattice volume that decreases when NiO dopant increases. Besides the perovskite, LaSrGa{sub 3.00}O{sub 7.00} (nominal composition) is present as second phase in all cases. When the samples are doped with NiO, the peaks of this second phase are shifted with respect to the peaks of the pure phase. These shifts suggest that this second phase could admit some Ni ions in its structure. According to the XRD patterns, the amount of the latter phase is larger when sintering time is increased. Electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) indicated that the matrix of the samples sintered for 6 h is constituted by a perovskite with an experimental composition very close to the nominal one. However, when the samples are sintered for 48 h the matrix of each sample is constituted by two perovskites; both with compositional deviations with respect to their nominal one. In particular, a significant Sr depletion compensated by a La increment in the A site is observed. Those compositional deviations could be mainly due to the diffusion of the cations in the bulk and/or from the bulk to the surface of the samples. That diffusion can favour the formation, not only, of a second perovskite with a different composition in relation with the first one formed, but also, the formation of second phases. In addition, a very slight broadening of Bragg peaks of the perovskites sintered for 48 h is observed by XRD and can be related to the presence of two different perovskites in each sample according to EPMA results. By BSEM and EPMA analyses La{sub 4.00}Ga{sub 2.00}O{sub 9.00} (nominal composition) is also observed as second phase when samples are

Solid-state sintering of tungsten heavy alloys

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gurwell, W.E.

1994-10-01

Solid-state sintering is a technologically important step in the fabrication of tungsten heavy alloys. This work addresses practical variables affecting the sinterability: powder particle size, powder mixing, and sintering temperature and time. Compositions containing 1 to 10 micrometer (μM) tungsten (W) powders can be fully densified at temperatures near the matrix solidus. Blending with an intensifier bar provided good dispersion of elemental powders and good as-sintered mechanical properties under adequate sintering conditions. Additional ball milling increases powder bulk density which primarily benefits mold and die filling. Although fine, 1 μm W powder blends have high sinterability, higher as-sintered ductilities are reached in shorter sintering times with coarser, 5 μm W powder blends; 10μm W powder blends promise the highest as-sintered ductilities due to their coarse microstructural W

Facile synthesis and strongly microstructure-dependent electrochemical properties of graphene/manganese dioxide composites for supercapacitors

Science.gov (United States)

Zhang, Caiyun; Zhu, Xiaohong; Wang, Zhongxing; Sun, Ping; Ren, Yinjuan; Zhu, Jiliang; Zhu, Jianguo; Xiao, Dingquan

2014-09-01

Graphene has attracted much attention since it was firstly stripped from graphite by two physicists in 2004, and the supercapacitor based on graphene has obtained wide attention and much investment as well. For practical applications of graphene-based supercapacitors, however, there are still many challenges to solve, for instance, to simplify the technological process, to lower the fabrication cost, and to improve the electrochemical performance. In this work, graphene/MnO2 composites are prepared by a microwave sintering method, and we report here a relatively simple method for the supercapacitor packaging, i.e., dipping Ni-foam into a graphene/MnO2 composite solution directly for a period of time to coat the active material on a current collector. It is found that the microwave reaction time has a significant effect on the microstructure of graphene/MnO2 composites, and consequently, the electrochemical properties of the supercapacitors based on graphene/MnO2 composites are strongly microstructure dependent. An appropriately longer microwave reaction time, namely, 15 min, facilitates a very dense and homogeneous microstructure of the graphene/MnO2 composites, and thus, excellent electrochemical performance is achieved in the supercapacitor device, including a high specific capacitance of 296 F/g and a high capacitance retention of 93% after 3,000 times of charging/discharging cycles.

Tensile properties and microstructure of direct metal laser-sintered TI6AL4V (ELI alloy

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Moletsane, M. G.

2016-11-01

Full Text Available Direct metal laser sintering (DMLS is an additive manufacturing technology used to melt metal powder by high laser power to produce customised parts, light-weight structures, or other complex objects. During DMLS, powder is melted and solidified track-by-track and layer-by-layer; thus, building direction can influence the mechanical properties of DMLS parts. The mechanical properties and microstructure of material produced by DMLS can depend on the powder properties, process parameters, scanning strategy, and building geometry. In this study, the microstructure, tensile properties, and porosity of DMLS Ti6Al4V (ELI horizontal samples were analysed. Defect analysis by CT scans in pre-strained samples was used to detect the crack formation mechanism during tensile testing of as-built and heat-treated samples. The mechanical properties of the samples before and after stress relieving are discussed.

Sintering unalloyed titanium in DC electrical abnormal glow discharge

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Allan Seeber

2010-03-01

Full Text Available Powder metallurgy is widely used in the manufacture of components that have complex geometry. The good dimensional control, reduction in manufacturing steps and operating costs which has favored the use of this technique for manufacturing of titanium alloys components. However, the high affinity of this material with oxygen hinders strongly the sintering process. For this, the sintering associated with plasma technology can be considered an alternative technique for the processing of this material. The strict control of sintering atmosphere performed at low pressures and the reactive species present in the plasma environment can help to improve the sintering of this material. The results presented in this paper show a good correlation between the parameters used for the compaction of the samples and the microstructure develop during the plasma sintering of samples. The microstructure of the plasma assisted samples is also affected by the particular configuration used in the plasma reactor.

Effect of particle size distribution on sintering of tungsten

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Patterson, B.R.; Griffin, J.A.

1984-01-01

To date, very little is known about the effect of the nature of the particle size distribution on sintering. It is reasonable that there should be an effect of size distribution, and theory and prior experimental work examining the effects of variations in bimodal and continuous distributions have shown marked effects on sintering. Most importantly, even with constant mean particle size, variations in distribution width, or standard deviation, have been shown to produce marked variations in microstructure and sintering rate. In the latter work, in which spherical copper powders were blended to produce lognormal distributions of constant geometric mean particle size by weight frequency, blends with larger values of geometric standard deviation, 1nσ, sintered more rapidly. The goals of the present study were to examine in more detail the effects of variations in the width of lognormal particle size distributions of tungsten powder and determine the effects of 1nσ on the microstructural evolution during sintering

Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Multiphase Strengthened Al/Si/Al_2O_3/SiO_2/MWCNTs Nano composites Sintered by In Situ Vacuum Hot Pressing

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Li, J.; Jiang, X.; Zhu, D.; Zhu, M.; Shao, Z.; Johnson, S.; Luo, Z.

2015-01-01

Eutectic Al/Si binary alloy is technically one of the most important Al casting alloys due to its high corrosion resistance, evident shrinkage reduction, low thermal expansion coefficient, high fluidity, and good weldability. In this work, multi phased Al/Si matrix nano composites reinforced with Al_2O_3 and multi walled carbon nano tubes (MWCNTs) have been sintered by an in situ vacuum hot-pressing method. The alumina Al_2O_3 nanoparticles were introduced by an in situ reaction of Al with SiO_2. Microstructure and mechanical properties of the sintered Al/Si/Al_2O_3/SiO_2/MWCNTs nano composites with different alumina contents were investigated. The mechanical properties were determined by micro-Vickers hardness and compressive and shear strength tests. The results demonstrated that in situ alumina and MWCNTs had impacts on microstructure and mechanical properties of the nano composites. Based on the mechanical properties and microstructure of the nano composites, strengthening and fracture mechanisms by multiple reinforcements were analyzed

Microstructure evolution during 300 °C storage of sintered Ag nanoparticles on Ag and Au substrates

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Paknejad, S.A. [King’s College London, Physics Department, Strand, London WC2R 2LS (United Kingdom); Dumas, G. [Eltek Semiconductors Ltd, Nelson Road Industrial Estate, Dartmouth, Devon TQ6 9LA (United Kingdom); West, G. [Loughborough University, Materials Department, Loughborough LE11 3TU (United Kingdom); Lewis, G. [Eltek Semiconductors Ltd, Nelson Road Industrial Estate, Dartmouth, Devon TQ6 9LA (United Kingdom); Mannan, S.H., E-mail: samjid.mannan@kcl.ac.uk [King’s College London, Physics Department, Strand, London WC2R 2LS (United Kingdom)

2014-12-25

Highlights: • Shear strength of pressure-free sintered Ag found to increase during ageing at 300 °C on Ag substrate. • Rapid collapse of void number density after 24 h ageing in the sintered Ag layer. • Higher porosity at edge of joint compared to the middle. • Shear strength of pressure-free sintered Ag decreases during ageing at 300 °C due to high porosity layer growth. • Void free layer and high porosity layer growth explained in terms of atomic diffusion and grain boundary migration. - Abstract: A silver nanoparticle based die attach material was used in a pressure free process to bond 2.5 mm square Ag plated Si die to Ag and Au plated substrates. The assemblies were stored at 300 °C for up to 500 h and the morphology of the sintered Ag and the shear strength were monitored as a function of time. On Ag substrate it was found that die shear strength increased and that the Ag grains grew in size and porosity decreased over time. There was also a clear difference in morphology between sintered Ag at the die edge and centre. On Au substrate, it was observed that the initially high die shear strength decreased with storage time and that voids migrated away from the Ag/Au interface and into the Ag joint. This has led to the formation of a void free layer at the interface followed by a high porosity region, which weakened the joint. The microstructure reveals a high density of grain and twin boundaries which facilitate the Ag and Au atomic diffusion responsible. The grain structure of the plated Au led to diffusion of Au into the Ag via high-angle tilt grain boundaries, and grain boundary migration further dispersed the Au into the Ag layer.

Full densification of inkjet-printed copper conductive tracks on a flexible substrate utilizing a hydrogen plasma sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Kwon, Young-Tae [Department of Fusion Chemical Engineering, Hanyang University, Ansan 15588 (Korea, Republic of); Lee, Young-In [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University of Science and Technology, Seoul 01811 (Korea, Republic of); Kim, Seil [Department of Fusion Chemical Engineering, Hanyang University, Ansan 15588 (Korea, Republic of); Lee, Kun-Jae [Department of Energy Engineering, Dankook University, Cheonan 31116 (Korea, Republic of); Choa, Yong-Ho, E-mail: choa15@hanyang.ac.kr [Department of Fusion Chemical Engineering, Hanyang University, Ansan 15588 (Korea, Republic of)

2017-02-28

Highlights: • Hydrogen thermally- and plasma- treatments are applied to reduce and sinter the inkjet-printed copper patterns at low temperature. • Plasma sintered Cu patterns have fully densified microstructure with the resistivity of 3.23 μW cm. • Cu conductive track with dense microstructure remains its electrical resistivity after 1 month. • Thermal sintered Cu patterns show a relatively poor microstructure and high resistivity. - Abstract: Low temperature sintering techniques are crucial in developing flexible printed electronics. In this work, we demonstrate a novel hydrogen plasma sintering method that achieves a full reduction and densification of inkjet-printed patterns using a copper complex ion ink. After inkjet printing on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates, both hydrogen plasma and conventional hydrogen thermal treatment were employed to compare the resulting microstructures, electrical properties and anti-oxidation behavior. The plasma treated pattern shows a fully densified microstructure with a resistivity of 3.23 μΩ cm, while the thermally treated pattern shows a relatively poor microstructure and high resistivity. In addition, the hydrogen plasma-treated copper pattern retains its electrical resistivity for one month without any significant decrease. This novel hydrogen plasma sintering technique could be used to produce conductive patterns with excellent electrical properties, allowing for highly reliable flexible printed electronics.

Broadening microwave absorption via a multi-domain structure

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Zhengwang Liu

2017-04-01

Full Text Available Materials with a high saturation magnetization have gained increasing attention in the field of microwave absorption; therefore, the magnetization value depends on the magnetic configuration inside them. However, the broad-band absorption in the range of microwave frequency (2-18 GHz is a great challenge. Herein, the three-dimensional (3D Fe/C hollow microspheres are constructed by iron nanocrystals permeating inside carbon matrix with a saturation magnetization of 340 emu/g, which is 1.55 times as that of bulk Fe, unexpectedly. Electron tomography, electron holography, and Lorentz transmission electron microscopy imaging provide the powerful testimony about Fe/C interpenetration and multi-domain state constructed by vortex and stripe domains. Benefiting from the unique chemical and magnetic microstructures, the microwave minimum absorption is as strong as −55 dB and the bandwidth (<−10 dB spans 12.5 GHz ranging from 5.5 to 18 GHz. Morphology and distribution of magnetic nano-domains can be facilely regulated by a controllable reduction sintering under H2/Ar gas and an optimized temperature over 450–850 °C. The findings might shed new light on the synthesis strategies of the materials with the broad-band frequency and understanding the association between multi-domain coupling and microwave absorption performance.

Pressure sintering and creep deformation: a joint modeling approach

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Notis, M.R.

1979-10-01

Work related to microchemical and microstructural aspects of the joint modeling of pressure sintering and creep in ceramic oxides is reported. Quantitative techniques for the microchemical analysis of ceramic oxides and for the examination of impurity segregation effects in polycrystalline ceramic materials were developed. This has included fundamental absorption corrections for the oxygen anion species as a function of foil thickness. The evolution in microstructure during the transition from intermediate stage to final stage densification during hot pressing of cobalt oxide and preliminary studies with doped oxides were studied. This work shows promise in using time-integrated microstructural effects to elucidate the role of impurities in the sintering of ceramic materials

Experimental study on microstructure development of binary system Zn-O-Nb2O5 sintered at 1100 deg C-1400 deg C

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Syarif, Dani Gustaman; Sukirman, Engkir; Handayani, Ari; Hidayat, Saeful

2000-01-01

In order to find effective (simple) varistor, in this work effect of Nb 2 O 5 addition on microstructure development and it's mechanism was studied experimentally. The study was conducted by sintering Zn-O added with 0-1% mole Nb 2 O 5 at 1100 o C-1400 o C in air for 1 hour and analyzing the sintered pellets using optical and electromicroscope (SEM) and x-ray diffractometer. The x-ray diffraction analysis showed that in Nb 2 O 5 added -ZnO (Zn-O-Nb 2 O 5 ) pellets sintered at 1100 o C-1400 o C, second phase of Zn 3 Nb 2 O 8 existed. On the other hand, the metallographic analysis showed that at sintering temperature of 1100 o C-1400 o C, grain size of Zn-O-Nb 2 O 5 pellets increased with increasing of Nb 2 O 5 , however, the grain size decreased again after the concentration of Nb 2 O 5 exceeding certain value. From this data it was know also, that there was solid solution area in Zn-O-Nb 2 O 5 phase diagram. At sintering temperature ≥ 1300 o C, there was liquid phase sintering that make grains become rounded

Constrained Sintering in Fabrication of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells.

Science.gov (United States)

Lee, Hae-Weon; Park, Mansoo; Hong, Jongsup; Kim, Hyoungchul; Yoon, Kyung Joong; Son, Ji-Won; Lee, Jong-Ho; Kim, Byung-Kook

2016-08-09

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are inevitably affected by the tensile stress field imposed by the rigid substrate during constrained sintering, which strongly affects microstructural evolution and flaw generation in the fabrication process and subsequent operation. In the case of sintering a composite cathode, one component acts as a continuous matrix phase while the other acts as a dispersed phase depending upon the initial composition and packing structure. The clustering of dispersed particles in the matrix has significant effects on the final microstructure, and strong rigidity of the clusters covering the entire cathode volume is desirable to obtain stable pore structure. The local constraints developed around the dispersed particles and their clusters effectively suppress generation of major process flaws, and microstructural features such as triple phase boundary and porosity could be readily controlled by adjusting the content and size of the dispersed particles. However, in the fabrication of the dense electrolyte layer via the chemical solution deposition route using slow-sintering nanoparticles dispersed in a sol matrix, the rigidity of the cluster should be minimized for the fine matrix to continuously densify, and special care should be taken in selecting the size of the dispersed particles to optimize the thermodynamic stability criteria of the grain size and film thickness. The principles of constrained sintering presented in this paper could be used as basic guidelines for realizing the ideal microstructure of SOFCs.

Bismuth Titanate Fabricated by Spray-on Deposition and Microwave Sintering For High-Temperature Ultrasonic Transducers.

Science.gov (United States)

Searfass, Clifford T; Pheil, C; Sinding, K; Tittmann, B R; Baba, A; Agrawal, D K

2016-01-01

Thick films of ferroelectric bismuth titanate (Bi4Ti3O12) have been fabricated by spray-on deposition in conjunction with microwave sintering for use as high-temperature ultrasonic transducers. The elastic modulus, density, permittivity, and conductivity of the films were characterized. Electro-mechanical properties of the films were estimated with a commercial d33 meter which gave 16 pC/N. This value is higher than typically reported for bulk bismuth titanate; however, these films withstand higher field strengths during poling which is correlated with higher d33 values. Films were capable of operating at 650 °C for roughly 5 min before depoling and can operate at 600 °C for at least 7 days.

Effect of sintering temperature and heating mode on consolidation of ...

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

ratures ranging from 570–630 ◦C. Microwave sintering at a heating rate of as high as 22◦. C/min resulted in ... The effect of heating mode and sintering temperature are discussed .... the compacts. This is attributed to the Zn evaporated from the.

Vitrification of radioactive contaminated soil by means of microwave energy

Science.gov (United States)

Yuan, Xun; Qing, Qi; Zhang, Shuai; Lu, Xirui

2017-03-01

Simulated radioactive contaminated soil was successfully vitrified by microwave sintering technology and the solidified body were systematically studied by Raman, XRD and SEM-EDX. The Raman results show that the solidified body transformed to amorphous structure better at higher temperature (1200 °C). The XRD results show that the metamictization has been significantly enhanced by the prolonged holding time at 1200 °C by microwave sintering, while by conventional sintering technology other crystal diffraction peaks, besides of silica at 2θ = 27.830°, still exist after being treated at 1200 °C for much longer time. The SEM-EDX discloses the micro-morphology of the sample and the uniform distribution of Nd element. All the results show that microwave technology performs vitrification better than the conventional sintering method in solidifying radioactive contaminated soil.

Sintering of a class F fly ash

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Joseph J. Biernacki; Anil K. Vazrala; H. Wayne Leimer [Tennessee Technological University, Cookeville, TN (United States). Department of Chemical Engineering

2008-05-15

The sinterability of a class F fly ash was investigated as a function of processing conditions including sintering temperature (1050-1200{sup o}C) and sintering time (0-90 min). Density, shrinkage, splitting tensile strength, water absorption and residual loss on ignition (RLOI) were evaluated as measures of sintering efficiency. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray microanalysis and X-ray diffraction was used to examine microstructure and phase development due to processing. The results show that premature densification can inhibit complete carbon removal and that carbon combustion is influenced by both internal and external mass transfer conditions. 18 refs., 10 figs., 1 tab.

Microstructural and electrochemical characterization of Ni/Ti/sub 2/N composite coating for sintered NdFeB permanent magnets

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ali, A.; Ahmad, A.; Deen, K.M.; Ahmad, R.

2009-01-01

Sintered NdFeB magnets have complex microstructure that makes them susceptible to corrosion in humid or moist environments. The paper presents the anticorrosion characteristics of a novel Ni/Ti/sub 2/N composite coating applied through electrodeposition and cathodic arc physical vapour deposition (CAPVD) to sintered NdFeB permanent magnets. The performance of composite coating was evaluated in simulated marine environment with the help of dc polarization techniques. The rate of coating degradation was also determined by employing ac electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). The coating morphology and surface chemistry were studied with scanning electron microscope (SEM). X-ray diffraction (XRD) was used for identification of component phases in the coating-substrate system. The results showed that the composite coating provided an adequately improved corrosion protection to the sintered NdFeB magnets in the simulated marine environment compared to the earlier reported ceramic and metallic coatings. The composite coating did not damage the magnetic properties of coating-substrate system that remained at par with the ceramic and nickel coating having copper interlayer. (author)

Synthesis, structural and microwave dielectric properties of Al2W3-xMoxO12 (x = 0-3) ceramics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Surjith, A.; James, Nijesh K.; Ratheesh, R.

2011-01-01

Highlights: → Solid state synthesis of phase pure Al 2 W 3-x Mo x O 12 (x = 0-3) compositions. → Sintering studies of Al 2 W 3-x Mo x O 12 (x = 0-3) ceramics. → Structural and microstructural evaluation using powder X-ray diffraction and SEM studies. → Microwave dielectric property evaluation of Al 2 W 3-x Mo x O 12 (x = 0-3) ceramics through Hakki and Coleman post resonator and cavity perturbation techniques. → Structure-property correlation through Laser Raman studies. - Abstract: Low dielectric ceramics in the Al 2 W 3-x Mo x O 12 (x = 0-3) system have been prepared through solid state ceramic route. The phase purity of the ceramic compositions has been studied using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) studies. The microstructure of the sintered ceramics was evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The crystal structure of the ceramic compositions as a result of Mo substitution has been studied using Laser Raman spectroscopy. The microwave dielectric properties of the ceramics were studied by Hakki and Coleman post resonator and cavity perturbation techniques. Al 2 Mo x W 3-x O 12 (x = 0-3) ceramics exhibited low dielectric constant and relatively high unloaded quality factor. The temperature coefficient of resonant frequency of the compositions is found to be in the range -41 to -72 ppm/deg. C.

Microstructure and mechanical behavior of ODS and non-ODS Fe–14Cr model alloys produced by spark plasma sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Auger, M.A.; Castro, V. de; Leguey, T.; Muñoz, A.; Pareja, R.

2013-01-01

In this work the spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique has been explored as an alternative consolidation route for producing ultra-fine grained Fe–14Cr model alloys containing a dispersion of oxide nanoparticles. Elemental powders of Fe and Cr, and nanosized Y 2 O 3 powder have been mechanically alloyed in a planetary ball mill and rapidly sintered in a spark plasma furnace. Two alloys, with nominal compositions Fe–14%Cr and Fe–14%Cr–0.3%Y 2 O 3 (wt.%), have been fabricated and their microstructure and mechanical properties investigated. The results have been compared with those obtained for other powder metallurgy processed alloys of the same composition but consolidated by hot isostatic pressing. The SPS technique under the present conditions has produced Fe–14Cr materials that apparently exhibit different microstructures yielding inferior mechanical properties than the counterpart material consolidated by hot isostatic pressing. Although the presence of a dispersion of Y-rich particles is evident, the oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) Fe–14Cr alloy consolidated by SPS exhibits poor tensile properties. The extensive decoration of the powder particle surfaces with Cr-rich precipitates and the residual porosity appear to be responsible for the impaired properties of this ODS alloy consolidated by SPS

Microstructure and mechanical behavior of ODS and non-ODS Fe–14Cr model alloys produced by spark plasma sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Auger, M.A.; Castro, V. de [Departamento de Física, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, 28911 Leganés (Spain); Leguey, T., E-mail: leguey@fis.uc3m.es [Departamento de Física, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, 28911 Leganés (Spain); Muñoz, A.; Pareja, R. [Departamento de Física, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, 28911 Leganés (Spain)

2013-05-15

In this work the spark plasma sintering (SPS) technique has been explored as an alternative consolidation route for producing ultra-fine grained Fe–14Cr model alloys containing a dispersion of oxide nanoparticles. Elemental powders of Fe and Cr, and nanosized Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} powder have been mechanically alloyed in a planetary ball mill and rapidly sintered in a spark plasma furnace. Two alloys, with nominal compositions Fe–14%Cr and Fe–14%Cr–0.3%Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} (wt.%), have been fabricated and their microstructure and mechanical properties investigated. The results have been compared with those obtained for other powder metallurgy processed alloys of the same composition but consolidated by hot isostatic pressing. The SPS technique under the present conditions has produced Fe–14Cr materials that apparently exhibit different microstructures yielding inferior mechanical properties than the counterpart material consolidated by hot isostatic pressing. Although the presence of a dispersion of Y-rich particles is evident, the oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) Fe–14Cr alloy consolidated by SPS exhibits poor tensile properties. The extensive decoration of the powder particle surfaces with Cr-rich precipitates and the residual porosity appear to be responsible for the impaired properties of this ODS alloy consolidated by SPS.

The Influence of Milling and Spark Plasma Sintering on the Microstructure and Properties of the Al7075 Alloy

Science.gov (United States)

Málek, Přemysl; Minárik, Peter; Novák, Pavel; Průša, Filip

2018-01-01

The compact samples of an Al7075 alloy were prepared by a combination of gas atomization, high energy milling, and spark plasma sintering. The predominantly cellular morphology observed in gas atomized powder particles was completely changed by mechanical milling. The continuous-like intermetallic phases present along intercellular boundaries were destroyed; nevertheless, a small amount of Mg(Zn,Cu,Al)2 phase was observed also in the milled powder. Milling resulted in a severe plastic deformation of the material and led to a reduction of grain size from several µm into the nanocrystalline region. The combination of these microstructural characteristics resulted in abnormally high microhardness values exceeding 300 HV. Consolidation through spark plasma sintering (SPS) resulted in bulk samples with negligible porosity. The heat exposition during SPS led to precipitation of intermetallic phases from the non-equilibrium microstructure of both gas atomized and milled powders. SPS of the milled powder resulted in a recrystallization of the severely deformed structure. An ultra-fine grained structure (grain size close to 500 nm) with grains divided primarily by high-angle boundaries was formed. A simultaneous release of stored deformation energy and an increase in the grain size caused a drop of microhardness to values close to 150 HV. This value was retained even after annealing at 425 °C. PMID:29614046

The Influence of Milling and Spark Plasma Sintering on the Microstructure and Properties of the Al7075 Alloy

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Orsolya Molnárová

2018-04-01

Full Text Available The compact samples of an Al7075 alloy were prepared by a combination of gas atomization, high energy milling, and spark plasma sintering. The predominantly cellular morphology observed in gas atomized powder particles was completely changed by mechanical milling. The continuous-like intermetallic phases present along intercellular boundaries were destroyed; nevertheless, a small amount of Mg(Zn,Cu,Al2 phase was observed also in the milled powder. Milling resulted in a severe plastic deformation of the material and led to a reduction of grain size from several µm into the nanocrystalline region. The combination of these microstructural characteristics resulted in abnormally high microhardness values exceeding 300 HV. Consolidation through spark plasma sintering (SPS resulted in bulk samples with negligible porosity. The heat exposition during SPS led to precipitation of intermetallic phases from the non-equilibrium microstructure of both gas atomized and milled powders. SPS of the milled powder resulted in a recrystallization of the severely deformed structure. An ultra-fine grained structure (grain size close to 500 nm with grains divided primarily by high-angle boundaries was formed. A simultaneous release of stored deformation energy and an increase in the grain size caused a drop of microhardness to values close to 150 HV. This value was retained even after annealing at 425 °C.

Method for preparing a sinterable uranium dioxide powder

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Thornton, T.A.; Holaday, V.D. Jr.

1985-01-01

This invention provides an improved method for preparing a sinterable uranium dioxide powder for the preparation of nuclear fuel, using microwave radiation in a microwave induction furnace. The starting compound may be uranyl nitrate hexahydrate, ammonium diuranate or ammonium uranyl carbonate. The starting compound is heated in a microwave induction furnace for a period of time sufficient for compound decomposition. The decomposed compound is heated in a microwave induction furnace in a reducing atmosphere for a period of time sufficient to reduce the decomposed compound to uranium dioxide powder

Constrained Sintering in Fabrication of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Science.gov (United States)

Lee, Hae-Weon; Park, Mansoo; Hong, Jongsup; Kim, Hyoungchul; Yoon, Kyung Joong; Son, Ji-Won; Lee, Jong-Ho; Kim, Byung-Kook

2016-01-01

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are inevitably affected by the tensile stress field imposed by the rigid substrate during constrained sintering, which strongly affects microstructural evolution and flaw generation in the fabrication process and subsequent operation. In the case of sintering a composite cathode, one component acts as a continuous matrix phase while the other acts as a dispersed phase depending upon the initial composition and packing structure. The clustering of dispersed particles in the matrix has significant effects on the final microstructure, and strong rigidity of the clusters covering the entire cathode volume is desirable to obtain stable pore structure. The local constraints developed around the dispersed particles and their clusters effectively suppress generation of major process flaws, and microstructural features such as triple phase boundary and porosity could be readily controlled by adjusting the content and size of the dispersed particles. However, in the fabrication of the dense electrolyte layer via the chemical solution deposition route using slow-sintering nanoparticles dispersed in a sol matrix, the rigidity of the cluster should be minimized for the fine matrix to continuously densify, and special care should be taken in selecting the size of the dispersed particles to optimize the thermodynamic stability criteria of the grain size and film thickness. The principles of constrained sintering presented in this paper could be used as basic guidelines for realizing the ideal microstructure of SOFCs. PMID:28773795

Effect of sintering time on structural, microstructural and chemical composition of Ni-doped lanthanum gallate perovskites

Science.gov (United States)

Colomer, M. T.; Kilner, J. A.

2015-08-01

This work reports the effect of two different sintering times, 6 and 48 h on the structural, microstructural, and chemical features of Ni-doped La0.90Sr0.10GaO3.00-δ. Independently of the sintering time, La0.90Sr0.10Ga1-xNixO3.00-δ (where x=0.10, and 0.20 (mol)) presents a rhombohedral symmetry with a lattice volume that decreases when NiO dopant increases. Besides the perovskite, LaSrGa3.00O7.00 (nominal composition) is present as second phase in all cases. When the samples are doped with NiO, the peaks of this second phase are shifted with respect to the peaks of the pure phase. These shifts suggest that this second phase could admit some Ni ions in its structure. According to the XRD patterns, the amount of the latter phase is larger when sintering time is increased. Electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) indicated that the matrix of the samples sintered for 6 h is constituted by a perovskite with an experimental composition very close to the nominal one. However, when the samples are sintered for 48 h the matrix of each sample is constituted by two perovskites; both with compositional deviations with respect to their nominal one. In particular, a significant Sr depletion compensated by a La increment in the A site is observed. Those compositional deviations could be mainly due to the diffusion of the cations in the bulk and/or from the bulk to the surface of the samples. That diffusion can favour the formation, not only, of a second perovskite with a different composition in relation with the first one formed, but also, the formation of second phases. In addition, a very slight broadening of Bragg peaks of the perovskites sintered for 48 h is observed by XRD and can be related to the presence of two different perovskites in each sample according to EPMA results. By BSEM and EPMA analyses La4.00Ga2.00O9.00 (nominal composition) is also observed as second phase when samples are treated for 48 h.

Reaction sintering of ceramic-metal composites

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Botta Filho, W.J.; Rodrigues, J.A.; Tomasi, R.; Pandolfelli, V.C.; Passos, J.F.S.S.; Folgueras, M.V.

1990-01-01

Reaction sintering experiments have been carried out in the system Al 2 O 3 -ZrAl 2 -Nb 2 O 5 with the objective of producing ceramic-metal composites of improved toughness. The sintering treatments have been done in the temperature range of 700 0 C to 1400 0 C under different conditions of vacuum and in air and argon atmospheres. The treated samples have been analysed by X-ray diffraction and analytical electron microscopy. The results are discussed in function of the degree of reaction, the development of microstructure and the densification. These results have shown that although an exchange reaction can occur to produce a composite, the control of the reaction to obtain a dense microstructure has not been possible yet. (author) [pt

Facile synthesis and strongly microstructure-dependent electrochemical properties of graphene/manganese dioxide composites for supercapacitors

Science.gov (United States)

2014-01-01

Graphene has attracted much attention since it was firstly stripped from graphite by two physicists in 2004, and the supercapacitor based on graphene has obtained wide attention and much investment as well. For practical applications of graphene-based supercapacitors, however, there are still many challenges to solve, for instance, to simplify the technological process, to lower the fabrication cost, and to improve the electrochemical performance. In this work, graphene/MnO2 composites are prepared by a microwave sintering method, and we report here a relatively simple method for the supercapacitor packaging, i.e., dipping Ni-foam into a graphene/MnO2 composite solution directly for a period of time to coat the active material on a current collector. It is found that the microwave reaction time has a significant effect on the microstructure of graphene/MnO2 composites, and consequently, the electrochemical properties of the supercapacitors based on graphene/MnO2 composites are strongly microstructure dependent. An appropriately longer microwave reaction time, namely, 15 min, facilitates a very dense and homogeneous microstructure of the graphene/MnO2 composites, and thus, excellent electrochemical performance is achieved in the supercapacitor device, including a high specific capacitance of 296 F/g and a high capacitance retention of 93% after 3,000 times of charging/discharging cycles. PACS 81.05.ue; 78.67.Sc; 88.80.fh PMID:25258609

SEM and TEM characterization of microstructure of stainless steel composites reinforced with TiB2

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sulima, Iwona; Boczkal, Sonia; Jaworska, Lucyna

2016-01-01

Steel-8TiB 2 composites were produced by two new sintering techniques, i.e. Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) and High Pressure-High Temperature (HP-HT) sintering. This study discusses the impact of these sintering methods on the microstructure of steel composites reinforced with TiB 2 particles. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), wavelength dispersive spectroscopy (WDS), X-ray diffraction, electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to analyze the microstructure evolution in steel matrix composites. The results of microscopic examinations revealed a close relationship between the composite microstructure and the methods and conditions of sintering. Substantial differences were observed in the grain size of materials sintered by HP-HT and SPS. It has been demonstrated that the composites sintered by HP-HT tend to form a chromium-iron-nickel phase in the steel matrix. In contrast, the microstructure of the composites sintered by SPS is characterized by the presence of complex borides and chromium-iron phase. - Highlights: •The steel-8TiB 2 composites were fabricated by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) and High Pressure-High Temperature (HP-HT). •Sintering techniques has an important effect on changes in the microstructure of steel-8TiB 2 composites. •New phases of different size and morphology were identified.

Influence of electric current on microstructure evolution in Ti/Al and Ti/TiAl{sub 3} during spark plasma sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Sun, Y. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-3136 (United States); Haley, J. [Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of California, Davis, CA 95616-5294 (United States); Kulkarni, K. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur 208016, UP (India); Aindow, M. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269-3136 (United States); Lavernia, E.J., E-mail: lavernia@ucdavis.edu [Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of California, Davis, CA 95616-5294 (United States); Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697-2575 (United States)

2015-11-05

The synthesis of γ-TiAl from elemental metals via solid-state reactive diffusion processing routes involves multiple reaction steps with the formation of various intermediate intermetallic compounds, starting with TiAl{sub 3} because this phase is favored kinetically. To understand the processes by which the TiAl{sub 3} intermediate is eliminated during synthesis of γ-TiAl alloy via spark plasma sintering (SPS), the reaction between Ti and TiAl{sub 3} during SPS was studied with emphasis on the effects of the applied electric current and starting TiAl{sub 3} microstructure on the reaction kinetics and the underlying diffusion mechanisms. The intermediate intermetallic phases Ti{sub 3}Al, TiAl and TiAl{sub 2} were formed between the Ti and TiAl{sub 3} upon SPS processing at 900 °C. The applied electric current did not alter the character of the phases formation in the Ti/TiAl{sub 3} system, but thermodynamic calculations suggest that the activation energy for the nucleation of TiAl{sub 2} is reduced significantly with an electric current flowing. Moreover, the kinetics of the reactions between Ti and TiAl{sub 3} were enhanced when the starting TiAl{sub 3} microstructure was refined. The electric field also had a more significant influence on the grain growth kinetics for TiAl{sub 2} and TiAl in powder blend compacts with refined microstructures. - Highlights: • Reaction between Ti and TiAl{sub 3} during spark plasma sintering was studied. • Refined starting TiAl{sub 3} microstructure enhanced the reactions kinetics. • The nucleation barrier of TiAl{sub 2} was reduced by the applied electric field. • The applied electric field restrained the grain growth of TiAl and TiAl{sub 2}.

Sintering of dioxide pellets in an oxidizing atmosphere (CO2)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Santos, G.R.T.

1992-01-01

This work consists in the study of the sintering process of U O 2 pellets in an oxidizing atmosphere. Sintering tests were performed in an CO 2 atmosphere and the influence of temperature and time on the pellets density and microstructure were verified. The results obtained were compared to those from the conventional sintering process and its efficiency was confirmed. (author)

Two-dimensional simulation of sintering process

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Vasconcelos, Vanderley de; Pinto, Lucio Carlos Martins; Vasconcelos, Wander L.

1996-01-01

The results of two-dimensional simulations are directly applied to systems in which one of the dimensions is much smaller than the others, and to sections of three dimensional models. Moreover, these simulations are the first step of the analysis of more complex three-dimensional systems. In this work, two basic features of the sintering process are studied: the types of particle size distributions related to the powder production processes and the evolution of geometric parameters of the resultant microstructures during the solid-state sintering. Random packing of equal spheres is considered in the sintering simulation. The packing algorithm does not take into account the interactive forces between the particles. The used sintering algorithm causes the densification of the particle set. (author)

Modeling of sintering of functionally gradated materials

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gasik, M.; Zhang, B.

2001-01-01

The functionally gradated materials (FGMs) are distinguished from isotropic materials by gradients of composition, phase distribution, porosity, and related properties. For FGMs made by powder metallurgy, sintering control is one of the most important factors. In this study sintering process of FGMs is modeled and simulated with a computer. A new modeling approach was used to formulate equation systems and the model for sintering of gradated hard metals, coupled with heat transfer and grain growth. A FEM module was developed to simulate FGM sintering in conventional, microwave and hybrid conditions, to calculate density, stress and temperature distribution. Behavior of gradated WC-Co hardmetal plate and cone specimens was simulated for various conditions, such as mean particle size, green density distribution and cobalt gradation parameter. The results show that the deformation behavior and stress history of graded powder compacts during heating, sintering and cooling could be predicted for optimization of sintering process. (author)

Microstructure and phase analysis of Zirconia-ODS (Oxide Dispersion Strengthen) alloy sintered by APS with milling time variation

Science.gov (United States)

Sugeng, Bambang; Bandriyana, B.; Sugeng, Bambang; Salam, Rohmad; Sumariyo; Sujatno, Agus; Dimyati, Arbi

2018-03-01

Investigation on the relationship between the process conditions of milling time and the microstructure on the synthesis of the zirconia-ODS steel alloy has been performed. The elemental composition of the alloy was determined on 20 wt% Cr and zirconia dispersoid of 0.50 wt%. The synthesis was carried out by powder metallurgy method with milling time of 3, 5 and 7 hours, static compression of 20 Ton and sintering process for 4 minutes using the APS (Arc Plasma Sintering) equipment. SEM-EDX and XRD test was carried out to characterize the phase and morphology of the alloy and the effect to the mechanical properties was evaluated by the Vickers Hardness testing. The synthesis produced sample of ODS steel with good dense and very little porous with the Fe-Cr phase that clearly observed in the XRD peak pattern. In addition milling time increased the homogeneously of Fe-Cr phase formulation, enhanced the grain refinement of the structure and increase the hardness of the alloy.

Microstructure Development During Sintering of TiC-Ni3A1 Cermets

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tiegs, T.N.

2001-01-01

TiC-Ni(sub 3)Al cermets are under development for application in diesel engines because of desirable physical properties and wear resistance. Powder compacts with binder contents from 30-50 vol.% were fabricated by pressureless sintering under vacuum followed by low gas pressure isostatic pressing. Increasing the Ni(sub 3)Al content improved densification when using prealloyed powders as expected. However, when the Ni(sub 3)Al was formed by in-situ reaction synthesis of Ni and NiAl, densification decreased with higher binder contents. The final microstructure consisted of a ''core-rim'' structure with TiC cores surrounded by (Ti,W)C rims. In some cases, Ni and Al were also observed in the peripheral region of the rim structure. Grain sizes of the TiC increased with binder content and temperature. Preferred orientation of the Ni(sub 3)Al binder phase was observed due to very large grain sizes on the order of millimeters

Effects of Heat Treatment on the Microstructures and High Temperature Mechanical Properties of Hypereutectic Al-14Si-Cu-Mg Alloy Manufactured by Liquid Phase Sintering Process

Science.gov (United States)

Heo, Joon-Young; Gwon, Jin-Han; Park, Jong-Kwan; Lee, Kee-Ahn

2018-05-01

Hypereutectic Al-Si alloy is an aluminum alloy containing at least 12.6 wt.% Si. It is necessary to evenly control the primary Si particle size and distribution in hypereutectic Al-Si alloy. In order to achieve this, there have been attempts to manufacture hypereutectic Al-Si alloy through a liquid phase sintering. This study investigated the microstructures and high temperature mechanical properties of hypereutectic Al-14Si-Cu-Mg alloy manufactured by liquid phase sintering process and changes in them after T6 heat treatment. Microstructural observation identified large amounts of small primary Si particles evenly distributed in the matrix, and small amounts of various precipitation phases were found in grain interiors and grain boundaries. After T6 heat treatment, the primary Si particle size and shape did not change significantly, but the size and distribution of CuAl2 ( θ) and AlCuMgSi ( Q) changed. Hardness tests measured 97.36 HV after sintering and 142.5 HV after heat treatment. Compression tests were performed from room temperature to 300 °C. The results represented that yield strength was greater after heat treatment (RT 300 °C: 351 93 MPa) than after sintering (RT 300 °C: 210 89 MPa). Fracture surface analysis identified cracks developing mostly along the interface between the primary Si particles and the matrix with some differences among temperature conditions. In addition, brittle fracture mode was found after T6 heat treatment.

Ferritic oxide dispersion strengthened alloys by spark plasma sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Allahar, Kerry N., E-mail: KerryAllahar@boisestate.edu [Materials and Science Engineering Department, Boise State University, 1910 University Blvd., Boise, ID 83725 (United States); Center for Advanced Energy Studies, 995 University Blvd., Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States); Burns, Jatuporn [Materials and Science Engineering Department, Boise State University, 1910 University Blvd., Boise, ID 83725 (United States); Center for Advanced Energy Studies, 995 University Blvd., Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States); Jaques, Brian [Materials and Science Engineering Department, Boise State University, 1910 University Blvd., Boise, ID 83725 (United States); Wu, Y.Q. [Materials and Science Engineering Department, Boise State University, 1910 University Blvd., Boise, ID 83725 (United States); Center for Advanced Energy Studies, 995 University Blvd., Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States); Charit, Indrajit [Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Idaho, McClure Hall Room 405D, Moscow, ID 83844 (United States); Cole, James [Idaho National Laboratory, Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States); Butt, Darryl P. [Materials and Science Engineering Department, Boise State University, 1910 University Blvd., Boise, ID 83725 (United States); Center for Advanced Energy Studies, 995 University Blvd., Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States)

2013-11-15

Spark plasma sintering (SPS) was used to consolidate a Fe–16Cr–3Al (wt.%) powder that was mechanically alloyed with Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Ti powders to produce 0.5 Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} and 0.5 Y{sub 2}O{sub 3}–1Ti powders. The effects of mechanical alloying and sintering conditions on the microstructure, relative density and hardness of the sintered oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) alloys are presented. Scanning electron microscopy indicated a mixed fine-grain and coarse-grain microstructure that was attributed to recrystallization and grain growth during sintering. Analysis of the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atom probe tomography (APT) data identified Y–O and Y–O–Ti nanoclusters. Elemental ratios of these nanoclusters were consistent with that observed in hot-extruded ODS alloys. The influence of Ti was to refine the grains as well as the nanoclusters with there being greater number density and smaller sizes of the Y–O–Ti nanoclusters as compared to the Y–O nanoclusters. This resulted in the Ti-containing samples being harder than the Ti-free alloys. The hardness of the alloys with the Y–O–Ti nanoclusters was insensitive to sintering time while smaller hardness values were associated with longer sintering times for the alloys with the Y–O nanoclusters. Pressures greater than 80 MPa are recommended for improved densification as higher sintering temperatures and longer sintering times at 80 MPa did not improve the relative density beyond 97.5%.

Improvement of mechanical strength of sintered Mo alloyed steel by optimization of sintering and cold-forging processes with densification

Science.gov (United States)

Kamakoshi, Y.; Shohji, I.; Inoue, Y.; Fukuda, S.

2017-10-01

Powder metallurgy (P/M) materials have been expected to be spread in automotive industry. Generally, since sintered materials using P/M ones contain many pores and voids, mechanical properties of them are inferior to those of conventional wrought materials. To improve mechanical properties of the sintered materials, densification is effective. The aim of this study is to improve mechanical strength of sintered Mo-alloyed steel by optimizing conditions in sintering and cold-forging processes. Mo-alloyed steel powder was compacted. Then, pre-sintering (PS) using a vacuum sintering furnace was conducted. Subsequently, coldforging (CF) by a backward extrusion method was conducted to the pre-sintered specimen. Moreover, the cold-forged specimen was heat treated by carburizing, tempering and quenching (CQT). Afterwards, mechanical properties were investigated. As a result, it was found that the density of the PS specimen is required to be more than 7.4 Mg/m3 to strengthen the specimen by heat treatment after CF. Furthermore, density and the microstructure of the PS specimen are most important factors to make the high density and strength material by CF. At the CF load of 1200 kN, the maximum density ratio reached approximately 99% by the use of the PS specimen with proper density and microstructure. At the CF load of 900 kN, although density ratio was high like more than 97.8%, transverse rupture strength decreased sharply. Since densification caused high shear stress and stress concentration in the surface layer, microcracks occurred by the damages of inter-particle sintered connection of the surface layer. On the contrary, in case of the CF load of 1200 kN, ultra-densification of the surface layer occurred by a sufficient plastic flow. Such sufficient compressed specimens regenerated the sintered connections by high temperature heat treatment and thus the high strength densified material was obtained. These processes can be applicable to near net shape manufacturing

Relation between microstructure and thermal conductivity in aluminium nitride substrates; Relations entre la microstructure et la conductivite thermique dans les substrats de nitrure d`aluminium

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jarrige, J.; Lecompte, J.P.; Seck, O. [Faculte des Sciences (CNRS), 87 - Limoges (France). Laboratoire de Materiaux Ceramiques et Traitements de Surface

1996-12-31

Sintered aluminium nitride is a promising ceramic substrate for future power electronics applications. This ceramic is characterized by a high thermal conductivity (100 to 200 W/m.K) which depends on two main factors: the oxygen content of the AlN powder used for the sintering process and the microstructure of the sintered material. The oxygen content changes with sintering additions. For instance, boron nitride allows the diffusion of oxygen from the nitride grains to the grain joints. With a complement of yttrium oxide in the liquid phase, the BN/Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} couple allows to increase the conductivity to 190 W/m.K with a reduction of the oxygen content. The second part of the study concerns the microstructure of sintered materials. A control of conductivity can be obtained using an adjustment of the sintering cycles. Only two types of microstructure, the secondary phase dispersed in the AlN matrix and the secondary phase that concentrates around triple junctions, allow a better contact between nitride grains and thus higher conductivities of 210 W/m.K. (J.S.) 6 refs.

HIP (hot isostatic pressing) sintering of Tantalum (Ta) and tantalum carbide (TaC) powder mixture: relations between microstructure and properties

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Valin, F.; Schnedecker, M.

1994-01-01

HIP sintering at 1630 C and 195 MPa, during 2 hours, can be used for complete densification of mixtures of commercial tantalum carbide and tantalum powders. HIPed material properties are depending upon initial compositions. For C/Ta ratios inferior to 80%, the monocarbide structure is preserved. A partial ordering of the carbon vacancies will result, for TaC(0.80), in microhardness maximization. The microstructurally homogenous TaC(0.45) shows an excellent toughness. 2 figs., 2 refs

Processing and properties of mechanically alloyed sintered steels with hard inclusions

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gutsfeld, C.

1991-10-01

The aim of this work was the development of mechanically alloyed sintered steels with inert hard inclusions and their characterisation concerning the mechanical properties and the sliding wear behaviour. For this material concept the hard materials NbC, TiC, TiN and Al 2 O 3 were chosen with volume contents upto 20%. Mechanical alloying of the raw powders is a necessary prerequisit for an extreme fine and homogeneous microstructure and good mechanical and wear properties. Through a connecting powder annealing a conventional powder metallurgical processing with cold pressing and sintering is possible. For the consolidation pressureless liquid phase sintering initiated through phosphorus contents of 0,6% is suitable. Because of the strong hampering of grain growth through the included hard particles sintering densities upto 99% TD are possible with extreme fine microstructures. The mechanical properties can be varied in wide ranges. So tensile strengths of 1150 MPa, elongations at fracture of 17%, hardness of over 800 HV and fatigue strengths of 370 MPa have been reached. Throughout HIP or sinter forging the mechanical properties can be improved furthermore. (orig.) [de

The electric conductivity of some forms of sintered synthetic zeolites

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Susic, M.; Petrovic, V.; Ristic, M.; Petranovic, N.

1978-01-01

Some forms of synthetic zeolites were sintered and their electric conductivity was measured. The conductivity was observed in correlation with the conductivity of non-sintered pressed samples. Also the change in microstructural constituents in the course of the process of sintering was observed with an optical microscope. It has been found that there is a considerable change in conductivity due to sintering as well as a change in the activation energy for conduction. Also the porosity is noticeably changed. A marked affect of the nature of counter ions on the electric conductivity is shown

Spark plasma sintering of SiC and ZrC

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Guillard, F.; Galy, J. [CEMES-CNRS, 29 rue Jeanne Marvig BP94347 31055 Toulouse Cx 4 (France); Allemand, A. [CEA Saclay, DRT/DTEN/S3ME/LTMEx, 91191 Gif-sur-Yvette (France)

2005-07-01

Spark plasma sintering a relative new technique allows sintering material powders in a reduced time compared to formal process of densification. In order to analyse densification mechanisms and to compare with hot isostatic pressing technique, pellets of silicon carbide and zirconium carbide were sintered by HIP and by SPS from 1750 to 1950 deg. C, with different pressures (50 to 75 MPa) and various holding times (0 to 10 min). Their densities were determined and their microstructures were SEM analysed. (authors)

The study on microstructure and microwave-absorbing properties of lithium zinc ferrites doped with magnesium and copper

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Cao Xiaofei [Key Laboratory of Liquid Structure and Heredity of Materials, Ministry of Education, Shandong University (south part), Jingshi Road 73, Jinan 250061 (China); Engineering Ceramics Key Laboratory of Shandong Province, Shandong University (south part), Jingshi Road 73, Jinan 250061 (China); Sun Kangning [Key Laboratory of Liquid Structure and Heredity of Materials, Ministry of Education, Shandong University (south part), Jingshi Road 73, Jinan 250061 (China); Engineering Ceramics Key Laboratory of Shandong Province, Shandong University (south part), Jingshi Road 73, Jinan 250061 (China)], E-mail: xiaowenhoulvbu1@yahoo.com.cn; Sun Chang; Leng Liang [Key Laboratory of Liquid Structure and Heredity of Materials, Ministry of Education, Shandong University (south part), Jingshi Road 73, Jinan 250061 (China); Engineering Ceramics Key Laboratory of Shandong Province, Shandong University (south part), Jingshi Road 73, Jinan 250061 (China)

2009-09-15

Lithium zinc ferrites doped with magnesium and copper were prepared by means of a combination of sol-gel method and subsequent calcination. The crystalline phase and microstructure of different doped lithium zinc ferrites were measured by X-ray powder diffraction and scanning electronic microscopy analysis. The results indicate that there are no remarkable differences in phase composition between pure lithium zinc ferrite and the as-doped lithium zinc ferrites. The effects of magnesium and copper dopants on microwave absorption in low-frequency region were investigated by the transmission/reflection coaxial line method. It was found from the present work that doping with copper improved microwave-absorbing properties, while doping with magnesium had little effect on microwave absorption of pure lithium zinc ferrite.

Effect of boric acid sintering aid on densification of barium ferrite

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Unknown

Physical properties like density and porosity have been studied for all compositions. The phase identification and microstructural investigation on the fractured surface have been carried out to understand the effect of sintering aid on the densification characteristics. Keywords. Barium ferrite; sintering aid; densification. 1.

Influence of the sintering temperature in the microstructure of foam glass obtained from waste glass

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pokorny, A.; Vicenzi, J.; Bergmann, C.P.

2012-01-01

In this work, foam glasses were produced from grounded soda-lime glass and a synthetic carbonate, used as a foaming agent, with a similar composition to a dolomite lime, added with different oxides (SiO 2 , Al 2 O 3 , Fe 2 O 3 , MnO 2 , Na 2 O, K 2 O, TiO 2 and P 2 O 5 ). The objective was to evaluate the influence of sintering temperature on the properties and microstructure of the obtained material. In addition, the effect of addition of the oxides in the expansion of the ceramic bodies was evaluated. The ceramic bodies were formulated with 3 weight percent of synthetic carbonate, uniaxially pressed and fired within the temperature range from 700 deg C to 950 deg C, with a heating rate of 150K/h. The technological characterization of the ceramic bodies involved the determination of the volumetric expansion and their microstructures have been characterized by optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The experimental results have shown foam glass can be obtained from grounded soda-lime glass, using synthetic carbonate, with the introduction of the different oxides, as foaming agent. (author)

Enhanced pressureless bonding by Tin Doped Silver Paste at low sintering temperature

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yang, Cheng-Xiang [School of Material Science and Engineering, and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Advanced Joining Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin (China); Department of Material Science and Engineering, Virginia Tech (United States); Li, Xin, E-mail: xinli@tju.edu.cn [School of Material Science and Engineering, and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Advanced Joining Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin (China); Lu, Guo-Quan [School of Material Science and Engineering, and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Advanced Joining Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin (China); Department of Material Science and Engineering, Virginia Tech (United States); Mei, Yun-Hui [School of Material Science and Engineering, and Tianjin Key Laboratory of Advanced Joining Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin (China)

2016-04-13

The nanosilver sintering die-attach technique has been a promising alternative for wide band gap semiconductors. However, it is less preferable in industry because of its high sintering temperature. Recently research has been initiated to develop transient liquid phase sintering (TLPS) solder paste for use in electronics packaging. In this article, in order to lower the sintering temperature of nanosilver paste, we develop a novel tin (up to 10 wt%) doped silver paste (TDSP) and a sintering profile with the highest processing temperature of 235 °C based on TLPS. Sintered TDSP is Ag/Ag{sub 3}Sn/Ag–Sn solid solution composites. The composites have a microstructure of Ag matrix grains reinforced by Ag{sub 3}Sn and Ag–Sn solid solution within the matrix grains. And this microstructure endows the sintered Ag+4%Sn with a pressureless bonding strength of 23 MPa. The improved mechanical properties of sintered TDSP are attributed to second-phase strengthening and solid solution strengthening mechanisms. However, the overmuch formation of brittle Ag{sub 3}Sn phase is the main reason resulting in sharp decrease of bonding strength when the Sn content over 5 wt%. The new TDSP technology is expected to be applicable to a wide range of power semiconductors devices, such as organic devices and printed circuit boards. Furthermore, it provides new strategies for low-temperature sintering.

Synthesis and characterization of aluminium–alumina micro- and nano-composites by spark plasma sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Dash, K.; Chaira, D.; Ray, B.C.

2013-01-01

Graphical abstract: The evolution of microstructure by varying the particle size of reinforcement in the matrix employing spark plasma sintering has been demonstrated here in Al–Al 2 O 3 system. An emphasis has been laid on varying the reinforcement particle size and evaluating the microstructural morphologies and their implications on mechanical performance of the composites. Nanocomposites of 0.5, 1, 3, 5, 7 volume % alumina (average size 2 O 3 micro- and nano-composites fabricated by spark plasma sintering. • Better matrix-reinforcement integrity in nanocomposites than microcomposites. • Spark plasma sintering method results in higher density and hardness values. • High density and hardness values of nanocomposites than microcomposites. • High dislocation density in spark plasma sintered Al–Al 2 O 3 composites. - Abstract: In the present study, an emphasis has been laid on evaluation of the microstructural morphologies and their implications on mechanical performance of the composites by varying the reinforcement particle size. Nanocomposites of 0.5, 1, 3, 5, 7 volume % alumina (average size 2 O 3 nancomposites respectively. Spark plasma sintering imparts enhanced densification and matrix-reinforcement proximity which have been corroborated with the experimental results

Effect Of Compaction Pressure And Sintering Temperature On The Liquid Phase Sintering Behavior Of Al-Cu-Zn Alloy

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Lee S.H.

2015-06-01

Full Text Available The liquid phase sintering characteristics of Al-Cu-Zn alloy were investigated with respect to various powder metallurgy processing conditions. Powders of each alloying elements were blended to form Al-6Cu-5Zn composition and compacted with pressures of 200, 400, and 600 MPa. The sintering process was performed at various temperatures of 410, 560, and 615°C in N2 gas atmosphere. Density and micro-Vickers hardness measurements were conducted at different processing stages, and transverse rupture strength of sintered materials was examined for each condition, respectively. The microstructure was characterized using optical microscope and scanning electron microscopy. The effect of Zn addition on the liquid phase sintering behavior during P/M process of the Al-Cu-Zn alloy was also discussed in detail.

In vitro and in vivo performance of bioactive Ti6Al4V/TiC/HA implants fabricated by a rapid microwave sintering technique

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Choy, Man Tik; Tang, Chak Yin; Chen, Ling; Wong, Chi Tak; Tsui, Chi Pong

2014-01-01

Failure of the bone–implant interface in a joint prosthesis is a main cause of implant loosening. The introduction of a bioactive substance, hydroxyapatite (HA), to a metallic bone–implant may enhance its fixation on human bone by encouraging direct bone bonding. Ti6Al4V/TiC/HA composites with a reproducible porous structure (porosity of 27% and pore size of 6–89 μm) were successfully fabricated by a rapid microwave sintering technique. This method allows the biocomposites to be fabricated in a short period of time under ambient conditions. Ti6Al4V/TiC/HA composites exhibited a compressive strength of 93 MPa, compressive modulus of 2.9 GPa and microhardness of 556 HV which are close to those of the human cortical bone. The in vitro preosteoblast MC3T3-E1 cells cultured on the Ti6Al4V/TiC/HA composite showed that the composite surface could provide a biocompatible environment for cell adhesion, proliferation and differentiation without any cytotoxic effects. This is among the first attempts to study the in vivo performance of load-bearing Ti6Al4V/TiC and Ti6Al4V/TiC/HA composites in a live rabbit. The results indicated that the Ti6Al4V/TiC/HA composite had a better bone–implant interface compared with the Ti6Al4V/TiC implant. Based on the microstructural features, the mechanical properties, and the in vitro and in vivo test results from this study, the Ti6Al4V/TiC/HA composites have the potential to be employed in load-bearing orthopedic applications. - Highlights: • Ti6Al4V/TiC and Ti6Al4V/TiC/HA composites were fabricated by microwave sintering. • Ti6Al4V/TiC/HA exhibited mechanical properties close to human cortical bone. • Ti6Al4V/TiC/HA could provide a biocompatible environment for bone cell growth. • Ti6Al4V/TiC/HA showed a better bone–implant interface than Ti6Al4V/TiC. • Ti6Al4V/TiC/HA could be used for bone replacement under load-bearing conditions

Microstructural and Mechanical Characterization of a Custom-Built Implant Manufactured in Titanium Alloy by Direct Metal Laser Sintering

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Maria Aparecida Larosa

2014-08-01

Full Text Available Custom-built implants manufacture has always presented difficulties which result in high cost and complex fabrication, mainly due to patients’ anatomical differences. The solution has been to produce prostheses with different sizes and use the one that best suits each patient. Additive manufacturing technology, incorporated into the medical field in the late 80's, has made it possible to obtain solid biomodels facilitating surgical procedures and reducing risks. Furthermore, this technology has been used to produce implants especially designed for a particular patient, with sizes, shapes, and mechanical properties optimized, for different areas of medicine such as craniomaxillofacial surgery. In this work, the microstructural and mechanical properties of Ti6Al4V samples produced by direct metal laser sintering (DMLS are studied. The microstructural and mechanical characterizations have been made by optical and scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and microhardness and tensile tests. Samples produced by DMLS have a microstructure constituted by hexagonal α′ martensite with acicular morphology. An average microhardness of 370 HV was obtained and the tensile tests showed ultimate strength of 1172 MPa, yield strength of 957 MPa, and elongation at rupture of 11%.

Determinants of the quality of sintered steel for the automotive industry

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Barbara Lisiecka

2016-03-01

Full Text Available The increasing demand on components obtained using powder metallurgy is driven by economic changes that have turned product quality into the most basic criterion which affects the interest in a component and its successful use. The improvement in quality should be expected in the beginning of the planning of the technological process and selection of adequate raw materials. High requirements concerning product quality management and production improvement stimulates the development of the current automotive industry where sintered steels represent the highest percentage of products. The multiphase sinters investigated in the study were prepared from two types of water–atomized steel powders: 316L and 409L. Optical microscopy, X–ray phase analysis and examinations of microhardness were performed in order to determine the microstructure and basic properties of sintered steels. The main assumption for this study was to analyse the microstructure and mechanical properties of sintered steels used for manufacturing of various car parts.

Microstructure and mechanical properties of direct metal laser sintered TI-6AL-4V

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Becker, Thorsten Hermann

2015-05-01

Full Text Available Direct metal laser sintering (DMLS is a selective laser melting (SLM manufacturing process that can produce near net shape parts from metallic powders. A range of materials are suitable for SLM; they include various metals such as titanium, steel, aluminium, and cobalt-chrome alloys. This paper forms part of a research drive that aims to evaluate the material performance of the SLM-manufactured metals. It presents DMLS-produced Ti-6Al-4V, a titanium alloy often used in biomedical and aerospace applications. This paper also studies the effect of several heat treatments on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti-6Al-4V processed by SLM. It reports the achievable mechanical properties of the alloy, including quasi-static, crack growth behaviour, density and porosity distribution, and post-processing using various heat-treatment conditions.

Multi-scale modeling of shape distortions during sintering of bi-layers

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Tadesse Molla, Tesfaye; Bjørk, Rasmus; Olevsky, Eugene

2014-01-01

on kinetic Monte Carlo (kMC) model of sintering. During the sintering process the shrinkage rate is calculated from the kMC model. With the help of computational homogenization, the effective viscosity of the powder compact is also estimated from a boundary value problem defined on the microstructures...

Microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis of CePO4 nanostructures: Correlation between the structural and optical properties

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Palma-Ramírez, D.; Domínguez-Crespo, M.A.; Torres-Huerta, A.M.; Dorantes-Rosales, H.; Ramírez-Meneses, E.; Rodríguez, E.

2015-01-01

Highlights: • An enhancement in the hydrothermal synthesis for obtaining of CePO 4 is presented. • Microwave energy can replace the energy by convection for obtaining CePO 4 . • CePO 4 demonstrates to be an option to increase the optical properties of polymers. • Adjusting the pH, the sintering process is not necessary to obtain the desire phase. • CePO 4 morphologies undergo evolution from nanorods to semispherical nanoparticles. - Abstract: In this work, the microwave-assisted hydrothermal method is proposed as an alternative to the synthesis of cerium phosphate (CePO 4 ) nanostructures to evaluate the influence of different synthesis parameters on both the structural and optical properties. In order to reach this goal, two different sets of experiments were designed, varying the reaction temperature (130 and 180 °C), synthesis time (15 and 30 min) and sintering temperature (400 and 600 °C), maintaining a constant pH = 3. Thereafter, two experimental conditions were selected to assess changes in the properties of CePO 4 nanopowders with pH (1, 5, 9 and 11). The crystal structure and morphology of the nanostructures were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. Diffuse reflectance properties of CePO 4 with different microstructures were studied. The results demonstrated that by using the microwave-assisted hydrothermal method, the shape, size and structural phase of CePO 4 can be modulated by using relatively low synthesis temperatures and short reaction times, and depending on pH, a sintering process is not needed to obtain either a desired phase or size. Under the selected experimental conditions, the materials underwent an evolution from nanorods to semispherical nanoparticles, accompanied by a phase transition from hexagonal to monoclinic

Two-stage sintering of Al2O3 with polysiloxane

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Godoy, A.L.E.; Bressiani, A.H.A.

2014-01-01

The final stage of sintering involves grain growth which often is not desirable in the microstructure of structural ceramics and cutting tools. The ceramics derived from inorganic polymers allow the production of thermo mechanical materials due to their hardness and especially their excellent structural stability under aggressive environment. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of two steps sintering process on density, microstructure and hardness of ceramics derived from the mixture alumina-polysiloxane (PMS). Alumina was ball-milled for 12, 24 and 48 hours. The alumina powder mean particle size was characterized by laser diffraction. It was added 10% wt of PMS. Pellets were prepared by die pressing and sintering at 1650°C/10min and 1550°C/1h. The sintered materials were characterized by evaluation of apparent density by helium picnometry, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and Vickers indentation analysis for hardness determination. The specimens are composed by mullite and the best results were obtained with the addition of alumina milled for 48 hours. (author)

The porosity effect on properties of sintered materials as their conductivity and Youngs modulus of elasticity

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ondracek, G.; Thuemmler, F.

1979-01-01

A set of equations derived demonstrates quantitatively the influence of closed pores on the conductivity as well as on Youngsmodulus of elasticity of sintered materials. There are three microstructural parameters following from the theoretical derivation controlling the porosity effect on the properties, which are the total porosity, the form factor and the orientation factor of the pores. By quantitative microstructure analysis these factors become available providing together with the equations the tool - to calculate the conductivity and Youngs modulus of elasticity from microstructural quantities of sintered materials thus substituting direct property measurements by quantitative microstructure analysis if desired - to endeaver technologically optimum microstructures to obtain theoretically predicted special property values and to precalculate property alterations by microstructure variations ('taylor-made-materials') - to supplement the conventional microstructural quality control by calculated property data. (orig.) [de

Crystallization evolution, microstructure and properties of sewage sludge-based glass–ceramics prepared by microwave heating

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tian, Yu; Zuo, Wei; Chen, Dongdong

2011-01-01

Highlights: ► A reactor is designed to prepare glass–ceramic from sewage sludge by microwave. ► Microwave process has reduced energy consumption for its low reaction temperature. ► Finer and uniform crystals are observed in microwave glass–ceramics. ► Improved properties of microwave glass–ceramics are found. ► We modeled the crystals growth in microwave field. - Abstract: A Microwave Melting Reactor (MMR) was designed in this study which improved the microwave adsorption of sewage sludge to prepare glass–ceramics. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used for the study of crystallization behavior and microstructure of the developed glass–ceramics. DSC and XRD analysis revealed that crystallization of the nucleated specimen in the region of 900–1000 °C resulted in the formation of two crystalline phases: anorthite and wollastonite. When the crystallization temperature increased from 900 to 1000 °C, the tetragonal wollastonite grains were subjected to tensile microstresses, causing the cracking of crystal. Al ions substituted partially Si ions and occupied tetrahedral sites, giving rise to the formation of anorthite. The relationship between microwave irradiation and crystal growth was studied and the result indicated that the microwave selective heating suppressed the crystal growth, giving apparent improvements in the properties of the glass–ceramics. The glass–ceramics products exhibited bending strength of 86.5–93.4 MPa, Vickers microhardness of 6.12–6.54 GPa and thermal expansion coefficient of 5.29–5.75 × 10 −6 /°C. The best chemical durability in acid and alkali solutions was 1.32–1.61 and 0.41–0.58 mg/cm 2 , respectively, showing excellent durability in alkali solution.

Flash sintering of ceramic materials

Science.gov (United States)

Dancer, C. E. J.

2016-10-01

During flash sintering, ceramic materials can sinter to high density in a matter of seconds while subjected to electric field and elevated temperature. This process, which occurs at lower furnace temperatures and in shorter times than both conventional ceramic sintering and field-assisted methods such as spark plasma sintering, has the potential to radically reduce the power consumption required for the densification of ceramic materials. This paper reviews the experimental work on flash sintering methods carried out to date, and compares the properties of the materials obtained to those produced by conventional sintering. The flash sintering process is described for oxides of zirconium, yttrium, aluminium, tin, zinc, and titanium; silicon and boron carbide, zirconium diboride, materials for solid oxide fuel applications, ferroelectric materials, and composite materials. While experimental observations have been made on a wide range of materials, understanding of the underlying mechanisms responsible for the onset and latter stages of flash sintering is still elusive. Elements of the proposed theories to explain the observed behaviour include extensive Joule heating throughout the material causing thermal runaway, arrested by the current limitation in the power supply, and the formation of defect avalanches which rapidly and dramatically increase the sample conductivity. Undoubtedly, the flash sintering process is affected by the electric field strength, furnace temperature and current density limit, but also by microstructural features such as the presence of second phase particles or dopants and the particle size in the starting material. While further experimental work and modelling is still required to attain a full understanding capable of predicting the success of the flash sintering process in different materials, the technique non-etheless holds great potential for exceptional control of the ceramic sintering process.

Microwave processing for ceramic materials in microsystem technology

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Rhee, S.

2002-11-01

In this study, the applicability of microwaves for sintering of monolithic ceramics and ceramic microcomponents was investigated. Experiments with 2.45 GHz and 30 GHz microwaves were conducted and contrasted to conventional thermal processing. The advantages and disadvantages of microwave processing were then assessed. Nanoscale zirconia and sub-micron lead-zirconate-titanate electroceramics were selected for the evaluation. (orig.)

Effects of sintering atmosphere and initial particle size on sintering of gadolinia-doped ceria

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Batista, Rafael Morgado

2014-01-01

The effects of the sintering atmosphere and initial particle size on the sintering of ceria containing 10 mol% gadolinia (GdO 1.5 ) were systematically investigated. The main physical parameter was the specific surface area of the initial powders. Nanometric powders with three different specific surface areas were utilized, 210 m 2 /g, 36,2 m 2 /g e 7,4 m 2 /g. The influence on the densification, and micro structural evolution were evaluated. The starting sintering temperature was verified to decrease with increasing on the specific surface area of raw powders. The densification was accelerated for the materials with smaller particle size. Sintering paths for crystallite growth were obtained. Master sintering curves for gadolinium-doped ceria were constructed for all initial powders. A computational program was developed for this purpose. The results for apparent activation energy showed noticeable dependence with specific surface area. In this work, the apparent activation energy for densification increased with the initial particle size of powders. The evolution of the particle size distributions on non isothermal sintering was investigated by WPPM method. It was verified that the grain growth controlling mechanism on gadolinia doped ceria is the pore drag for initial stage and beginning of intermediate stage. The effects of the sintering atmosphere on the stoichiometry deviation of ceria, densification, microstructure evolution, and electrical conductivity were analyzed. Inert, oxidizing, and reducing atmospheres were utilized on this work. Deviations on ceria stoichiometry were verified on the bulk materials. The deviation verified was dependent of the specific surface area and sintering atmosphere. Higher reduction potential atmospheres increase Ce 3+ bulk concentration after sintering. Accelerated grain growth and lower electrical conductivities were verified when reduction reactions are significantly present on sintering. (author)

Sintering of uranium dioxide obtained by continuous precipitation of AUC

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Amaya, C.D.; Sterba, M.E.; Russo, D.O.

1993-01-01

The Nuclear Materials Division in Bariloche Atomic Center evaluates the ceramic behaviour of UO 2 powders obtained from continuously precipitated and reduced AUC (Ammonium Uranyl Tri Carbonate). An analysis is made of powder characteristics (particle morphology and size distribution and specific area) on behaviour of UO 2 during sintering (compaction, sintering, pore and grain microstructure, etc.). 1 ref

Study of the impact of treatment modes on hardness, deformability and microstructure of VT6 (Ti-6Al-4V and VV751P (Ni-15Co-10Cr alloy samples after selective laser sintering

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Galkina Natalia V.

2017-01-01

Full Text Available Selective laser sintering is an advanced method for obtaining sophisticated products and assembly permanent joints. This is particularly relevant for heat resistant alloys employed in aviation equipment. Heat treatment modes traditionally applied to the products are chosen in accordance with conditions of further product operation. In this paper there are given the results of experimental study of hardness, deformability and microstructure of samples after selective laser sintering of Ni-15Co-10Cr and Ti–6Al–4V alloy powders. It has been determined that Ni-15Co-10Cr alloy ageing increases the hardness and deformability of samples; these characteristics decrease if the ageing lasts for 9-19 hours. Annealing of Ti–6Al–4V alloy samples results in preserving original hardness. After complete annealing, the hardness of samples decreases from 32 … 33HRC to 24 … 26HRC. Microstructural studies showed that there are cracks between layers in the surface of Ti–6Al–4V alloy samples after sintering and not complete annealing. After full annealing, cracks' width and length decreased. Cracks in Ni-15Co-10Cr alloy samples' microstructure were not detected.

Microstructure, magnetic and Moessbauer studies on spark-plasma sintered Sm-Co-Fe/Fe(Co) nanocomposite magnets

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Rao, N V Rama; Saravanan, P; Gopalan, R; Raja, M Manivel; Rao, D V Sreedhara; Chandrasekaran, V [Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory, Hyderabad-500 058 (India); Sivaprahasam, D [International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials Hyderabad-500 005 (India); Ranganathan, R [Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Kolkata-700 064 (India)], E-mail: rg_gopy@yahoo.com

2008-03-21

Nanocomposite powders comprising Sm-Co-Fe intermetallic phases and Fe(Co) were synthesized by high-energy ball milling and were consolidated into bulk magnets by the spark-plasma sintering (SPS) technique. While the microstructure of the SPS samples was characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the solubility of Fe in different phases was investigated using Moessbauer spectroscopy. TEM studies revealed that the spark-plasma sintered sample has Sm(Co,Fe){sub 5} as a major phase with Sm{sub 2}(Co,Fe){sub 17}, Sm(Co,Fe){sub 2} and Fe(Co) as secondary phases. The size of the nanocrystalline grains of all these phases was found to be in the range 50-100 nm. The Moessbauer spectra of the as-milled powders exhibited two different subspectra: a sextet corresponding to the Fe phase and a broad sextet associated with the Fe(Co) phase; while that of the SPS sample showed four different subspectra: a sextet corresponding to Fe and other three sextets corresponding to the Fe(Co), Sm(Co,Fe){sub 5} and Sm{sub 2}(Co,Fe){sub 17} phases; these results are in accordance with the TEM observation. Recoil magnetization and reversible susceptibility measurements revealed magnetically single phase behaviour of the SPS magnets.

Effects of V{sub 2}O{sub 5} addition on NiZn ferrite synthesized using two-step sintering process

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Hu Jun [College of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032 (China); State Key Laboratory of Silicon Materials, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027 (China); Shi Gang; Ni Zheming; Zheng Li [College of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032 (China); Chen Aimin, E-mail: hjzjut@zjut.edu.cn [College of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032 (China)

2012-06-15

The combined influence of a two-step sintering (TSS) process and addition of V{sub 2}O{sub 5} on the microstructure and magnetic properties of NiZn ferrite was investigated. As comparison, samples prepared by the conventional single-step sintering (SSS) procedure were also studied. It was found that with 0.3 wt% V{sub 2}O{sub 5} additive, the sample sintered by the two-step sintering process at a high temperature of 1250 Degree-Sign C for 30 min and a lower temperature of 1180 Degree-Sign C for 3 h exhibited more homogeneous microstructure and higher permeability with a high Q-factor. The results showed that the TSS method with suitable additive brought positive improvement of the microstructure and magnetic properties of NiZn ferrite.

Microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis of CePO{sub 4} nanostructures: Correlation between the structural and optical properties

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Palma-Ramírez, D. [Instituto Politécnico Nacional, CICATA-Unidad Altamira, Km 14.5, Carretera Tampico-Puerto Industrial Altamira, C.P. 89600 Altamira, Tamps (Mexico); Domínguez-Crespo, M.A., E-mail: mdominguezc@ipn.mx [Instituto Politécnico Nacional, CICATA-Unidad Altamira, Km 14.5, Carretera Tampico-Puerto Industrial Altamira, C.P. 89600 Altamira, Tamps (Mexico); Torres-Huerta, A.M. [Instituto Politécnico Nacional, CICATA-Unidad Altamira, Km 14.5, Carretera Tampico-Puerto Industrial Altamira, C.P. 89600 Altamira, Tamps (Mexico); Dorantes-Rosales, H. [Instituto Politécnico Nacional, ESIQIE, Departamento de Metalurgia, C.P. 07300 México D.F. (Mexico); Ramírez-Meneses, E. [Universidad Iberoamericana, Departamento de Ingeniería y Ciencias Químicas, Prolongación Paseo de la Reforma 880, Lomas de Santa Fe, C.P. 01219 México D.F. (Mexico); Rodríguez, E. [Instituto Politécnico Nacional, CICATA-Unidad Altamira, Km 14.5, Carretera Tampico-Puerto Industrial Altamira, C.P. 89600 Altamira, Tamps (Mexico)

2015-09-15

Highlights: • An enhancement in the hydrothermal synthesis for obtaining of CePO{sub 4} is presented. • Microwave energy can replace the energy by convection for obtaining CePO{sub 4}. • CePO{sub 4} demonstrates to be an option to increase the optical properties of polymers. • Adjusting the pH, the sintering process is not necessary to obtain the desire phase. • CePO{sub 4} morphologies undergo evolution from nanorods to semispherical nanoparticles. - Abstract: In this work, the microwave-assisted hydrothermal method is proposed as an alternative to the synthesis of cerium phosphate (CePO{sub 4}) nanostructures to evaluate the influence of different synthesis parameters on both the structural and optical properties. In order to reach this goal, two different sets of experiments were designed, varying the reaction temperature (130 and 180 °C), synthesis time (15 and 30 min) and sintering temperature (400 and 600 °C), maintaining a constant pH = 3. Thereafter, two experimental conditions were selected to assess changes in the properties of CePO{sub 4} nanopowders with pH (1, 5, 9 and 11). The crystal structure and morphology of the nanostructures were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), respectively. Diffuse reflectance properties of CePO{sub 4} with different microstructures were studied. The results demonstrated that by using the microwave-assisted hydrothermal method, the shape, size and structural phase of CePO{sub 4} can be modulated by using relatively low synthesis temperatures and short reaction times, and depending on pH, a sintering process is not needed to obtain either a desired phase or size. Under the selected experimental conditions, the materials underwent an evolution from nanorods to semispherical nanoparticles, accompanied by a phase transition from hexagonal to monoclinic.

Microstructural development of cobalt ferrite ceramics and its influence on magnetic properties

Science.gov (United States)

Kim, Gi-Yeop; Jeon, Jae-Ho; Kim, Myong-Ho; Suvorov, Danilo; Choi, Si-Young

2013-11-01

The microstructural evolution and its influence on magnetic properties in cobalt ferrite were investigated. The cobalt ferrite powders were prepared via a solid-state reaction route and then sintered at 1200 °C for 1, 2, and 16 h in air. The microstructures from sintered samples represented a bimodal distribution of grain size, which is associated with abnormal grain growth behavior. And thus, with increasing sintering time, the number and size of abnormal grains accordingly increased but the matrix grains were frozen with stagnant grain growth. In the sample sintered for 16 h, all of the matrix grains were consumed and the abnormal grains consequently impinged on each other. With the appearance of abnormal grains, the magnetic coercivity significantly decreased from 586.3 Oe (1 h sintered sample) to 168.3 Oe (16 h sintered sample). This is due to the magnetization in abnormal grains being easily flipped. In order to achieve high magnetic coercivity of cobalt ferrite, it is thus imperative to fabricate the fine and homogeneous microstructure.

Contribution to the study of the microstructure of uranium dioxide (1962)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Porneuf, A.

1960-05-01

The microstructure of sintered uranium dioxide is studied in relation with several parameters, specially the sintering temperatures and atmospheres. The external surface and the internal microstructure of the sintered are examined, using fractography and ceramography. Various techniques for preparing surfaces (mechanical and electrolytic polishing) and for revealing the structure (chemical and anodic attack, ionic bombardment oxidation) have been experienced and compared. Patterns similar to those revealed in metals and probably related with interactions between dislocations and vacancies have been observed. (author) [fr

Effects of talc and clay addition on pressureless sintering of porous ...

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Porous Si3N4 ceramics were successfully synthesized using cheaper talc and clay as sintering additives by pressureless sintering technology and the microstructure and mechanical properties of the ceramics were also investigated. The results indicated that the ceramics consisted of elongated -Si3N4 and small Si2N2O ...

Sintering behavior of porous wall tile bodies during fast single-firing process

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Sidnei José Gomes Sousa

2005-06-01

Full Text Available In ceramic wall tile processing, fast single-firing cycles have been widely used. In this investigation a fast single-firing porous wall tile mixture was prepared using raw materials from the North Fluminense region.Specimens were obtained by uniaxial pressing and sintered in air at various temperatures (1080 - 1200 °C using a fast-firing cycle (60 minutes. Evolution of the microstructure was followed by XRD and SEM. The results revealed that the main phases formed during the sintering step are anorthite, gehlenite and hematite. It appears that the sintering process is characterized by the presence of a small amount of a liquid phase below 1140 °C. As a result, the microstructure of the ceramic bodies showed a network of small dense zones interconnected with a porous phase. In addition, the strength of the material below 1140 °C appeared to be related to the type and quantity of crystalline phases in the sintered bodies.

Effect of current on the microstructure and performance of (Bi2Te3)0.2(Sb2Te3)0.8 thermoelectric material via field activated and pressure assisted sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chen Ruixue; Meng Qingsen; Fan Wenhao; Wang Zhong

2011-01-01

(Bi 2 Te 3 ) 0.2 (Sb 2 Te 3 ) 0.8 thermoelectric material was sintered via a field activated and pressure assisted sintering (FAPAS) process. By applying different current intensity (0, 60, 320 A/cm 2 ) in the sintering process, the effects of electric current on the microstructure and thermoelectric performance were investigated. This demonstrated that the application of electric current in the sintering process could significantly improve the uniformity and density of (Bi 2 Te 3 ) 0.2 (Sb 2 Te 3 ) 0.8 samples. When the current intensity was raised to 320 A/cm 2 , the preferred orientation of grains was observed. Moreover, positive effects on the thermoelectric performance of applying electric current in the sintering process were also confirmed. An increase of 0.02 and 0.11 in the maximum figure of merit ZT value could be acquired by applying current of 60 and 320 A/cm 2 , respectively. (semiconductor materials)

Preliminary investigation of liquid phase sintering in ferrous systems

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Klein, J.

1975-04-01

Liquid phase sintering was utilized to achieve, by a simple compaction and sintering procedure involving short times and moderate temperatures, a virtually full dense high carbon Fe:C alloy and high boron Fe:B alloy. Parameters such as powder characteristics and mixing, compacting pressure, heating program and the liquid phase fraction were found to influence the sintered density. The response of the Fe:C alloy to a heat treatment is reported along with preliminary experiments in the iron base ternary system Fe:W:C. Residual porosities observed in microstructures of certain liquid phase sintered compacts were accounted for by a proposed capillary flow of the liquid phase and a local densification competing against an overall densification. Some general recommendations are made for liquid phase sintering of powder aggregates. 15 fig., 7 tables

Influences of spark plasma sintering temperature on the microstructures and thermoelectric properties of (Sr0.95Gd0.05)TiO3 ceramics

Science.gov (United States)

Li, Liang-Liang; Qin, Xiao-Ying; Liu, Yong-Fei; Liu, Quan-Zhen

2015-06-01

(Sr0.95Gd0.05)TiO3 (SGTO) ceramics are successfully prepared via spark plasma sintering (SPS) respectively at 1548, 1648, and 1748 K by using submicron-sized SGTO powders synthesized from a sol-gel method. The densities, microstructures, and thermoelectric properties of the SGTO ceramics are studied. Though the Seebeck coefficient shows no obvious difference in the case that SPS temperatures range from 1548 K to 1648 K, the electrical conductivity and the thermal conductivity increase remarkably due to the increase in grain size and density. The sample has a density higher than 98% theoretical density as the sintering temperature increases up to 1648 K and shows average grain sizes increasing from ˜ 0.7 μm to 7 μm until 1748 K. As a result, the maximum of the dimensionless figure of merit of ˜ 0.24 is achieved at ˜ 1000 K for the samples sintered at 1648 K and 1748 K, which was ˜ 71% larger than that (0.14 at ˜ 1000 K) for the sample sintered at 1548 K due to the enhancement of the power factor. Project supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 11174292, 51101150, and 11374306).

The effect of powder properties on sintering, microstructure, mechanical strength and degradability of beta-tricalcium phosphate/calcium silicate composite bioceramics

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lin Kaili; Chang Jiang; Shen Ruxiang, E-mail: jchang@mail.sic.ac.c [State Key Laboratory of High Performance Ceramics and Superfine Microstructure, Shanghai Institute of Ceramics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 1295 Dingxi Road, Shanghai 200050 (China)

2009-12-15

The effect of powder properties on sintering, microstructure, mechanical strength and degradability of beta-tricalcium phosphate/Calcium silicate (beta-Ca{sub 3}(PO{sub 4}){sub 2}/CaSiO{sub 3}, beta-TCP/CS) composite bioceramics was investigated. beta-TCP/CS composite powders with a weight ratio of 50:50 were prepared by three different methods: mechanical milling method (TW-A), two-step chemical precipitation method (TW-B) and in situ chemical co-precipitation method (TW-C), and then the three composite powders were uniaxially compacted at 30 MPa, followed by cold isostatic pressing into rectangular-prism-shaped specimens under a pressure of 200 MPa for 15 min, and then sintered at 1150 deg. C for 5 h. The TW-B powders with less agglomerative morphologies and uniform nano-size particles attained 96.14% relative density (RD). A uniform microstructure with about 120 nm grains was observed. Whereas, the samples obtained from TW-A and TW-C powders only reached a RD of 63.08% and 78.86%, respectively. The bending strength of the samples fabricated from TW-B reached 125 MPa, which was more than 3.7 and 1.5 times higher as compared with that of samples obtained from TW-A and TW-C powders, respectively. Furthermore, the degradability of the samples fabricated from TW-B powders was obviously lower than that of the samples fabricated from TW-A and TW-C powders.

Microstructure and mechanical properties of thermoelectric nanostructured n-type silicon-germanium alloys synthesized employing spark plasma sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bathula, Sivaiah [CSIR-Network of Institutes for Solar Energy, CSIR-National Physical Laboratory, Dr. K. S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi 110012 (India); Department of Applied Physics, Delhi Technological University, Delhi (India); Gahtori, Bhasker; Tripathy, S. K.; Tyagi, Kriti; Srivastava, A. K.; Dhar, Ajay, E-mail: adhar@nplindia.org [CSIR-Network of Institutes for Solar Energy, CSIR-National Physical Laboratory, Dr. K. S. Krishnan Marg, New Delhi 110012 (India); Jayasimhadri, M. [Department of Applied Physics, Delhi Technological University, Delhi (India)

2014-08-11

Owing to their high thermoelectric (TE) figure-of-merit, nanostructured Si{sub 80}Ge{sub 20} alloys are evolving as a potential replacement for their bulk counterparts in designing efficient radio-isotope TE generators. However, as the mechanical properties of these alloys are equally important in order to avoid in-service catastrophic failure of their TE modules, we report the strength, hardness, fracture toughness, and thermal shock resistance of nanostructured n-type Si{sub 80}Ge{sub 20} alloys synthesized employing spark plasma sintering of mechanically alloyed nanopowders of its constituent elements. These mechanical properties show a significant enhancement, which has been correlated with the microstructural features at nano-scale, delineated by transmission electron microscopy.

Constrained sintering of an air-plasma-sprayed thermal barrier coating

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Cocks, A.C.F.; Fleck, N.A.

2010-01-01

A micromechanical model is presented for the constrained sintering of an air-plasma-sprayed, thermal barrier coating upon a thick superalloy substrate. The coating comprises random splats with intervening penny-shaped cracks. The crack faces make contact at asperities, which progressively sinter in-service by interfacial diffusion, accommodated by bulk creep. Diffusion is driven by the reduction in interfacial energy at the developing contacts and by the local asperity contact stress. At elevated operating temperature, both sintering and creep strains accumulate within the plane of the coating. The sensitivities of sintering rate and microstructure evolution rate to the kinetic parameters and thermodynamic driving forces are explored. It is demonstrated that the sintering response is governed by three independent timescales, as dictated by the material and geometric properties of the coating. Finally, the role of substrate constraint is assessed by comparing the rate of constrained sintering with that for free sintering.

Synthesis of low loss, thermally stable CexY1-xTiTaO6 microwave ceramics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Padma Kumar, H.; John, Annamma; Vijayakumar, C.; Thomas, J.K.; Varma, Manoj Raama; Solomon, Sam

2009-01-01

Ce x Y 1-x TiTaO 6 ceramics were prepared through the solid-state ceramic route. The materials were sintered in the range 1520-1580 deg. C. The structure of the system was analyzed by X-ray diffraction and Raman spectroscopic methods. The cell parameters of solid solutions were calculated using the least square method. The microstructure was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. The dielectric constant (ε r ), temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τ f ) and the unloaded quality factor (Q u ) are measured in the microwave frequency region using cavity resonator method. The dielectric constant increases with higher concentrations of Ce in the solid solutions. Nearly zero temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τ f ) was obtained for Ce 0.24 Y 0.76 TiTaO 6 . The samples are of high quality factor and are useful electronic materials for microwave applications

Corrosion behaviour of sintered duplex stainless steels

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Utrilla, M. Victoria; Urena, Alejandro; Otero, Enrique; Munez, Claudio Jose [Escuela Superior de Ciencias Experimentales y Tecnologia, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, C/ Tulipan s/n, 28933 Mostoles, Madrid (Spain)

2004-07-01

Duplex austenite-ferrite stainless steels were prepared by mixing austenitic (316L) and ferritic (434L) atomized powders. Although different 316L/434L ratios were prepared, present work centred its study on 50% ferrite - 50% austenite sintered steel. The powders were mixed and pressed at 700 MPa and sintered at 1250 deg. C for 30 min in vacuum. The cooling rate was 5 deg. C/min. Solution treatment was carried out to homogenize the microstructure at 1100 deg. C during 20 min. A microstructural study of the material in solution was performed, evaluating the microstructure, proportion and shape of porosity, and ferrite percentage. This last was measured by two methods, quantitative metallography and Fischer ferrito-metry. The materials were heat treated in the range of 700 to 1000 deg. C, for 10, 30 and 60 min and water quenched, to study the microstructural changes and the influence on the intergranular corrosion resistance. The method used to evaluate the sensitization to the intergranular corrosion was the electrochemical potentio-kinetic reactivation procedure (EPR). The test solution was 0.5 M H{sub 2}SO{sub 4} + 0,01 M KSCN at 30 deg. C. The criterion used to evaluate the sensitization was the ratio between the maximum reactivation density (Ir) and the maximum activation density (Ia). The results of the electrochemical tests were discussed in relation with the microstructures observed at the different heat treatments. (authors)

Improving NASICON Sinterability through Crystallization under High Frequency Electrical Fields

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Ilya eLisenker

2016-03-01

Full Text Available The effect of high frequency (HF electric fields on the crystallization and sintering rates of a lithium aluminum germanium phosphate (LAGP ion conducting ceramic was investigated. LAGP with the nominal composition Li1.5Al0.5Ge1.5(PO43 was crystallized and sintered, both conventionally and under effect of electrical field. Electrical field application, of 300V/cm at 1MHz, produced up to a 40% improvement in sintering rate of LAGP that was crystallized and sintered under the HF field. Heat sink effect of the electrodes appears to arrest thermal runaway and subsequent flash behavior. Sintered pellets were characterized using XRD, SEM, TEM and EIS to compare conventionally and field sintered processes. The as-sintered structure appears largely unaffected by the field as the sintering curves tend to converge beyond initial stages of sintering. Differences in densities and microstructure after 1 hour of sintering were minor with measured sintering strains of 31% vs. 26% with and without field, respectively . Ionic conductivity of the sintered pellets was evaluated and no deterioration due to the use of HF field was noted, though capacitance of grain boundaries due to secondary phases was significantly increased.

Effect of sintering on structure and mechanical properties of alumina-15 vol% zirconia nanocomposite compacts

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Maneshian, Mohammad H.; Banerjee, Malay K.

2010-01-01

The sintering and densification behavior of high energy ball milled (HEBM-ed) alumina-15 vol% zirconia nanocomposite were carried out and the probable tetragonal to monoclinic phase transformation of ZrO 2 during sintering was investigated. Evolution of microstructure resulting from sintering was followed up by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) on polished samples, and the degree of phase transformation was determined by quantitative X-ray analysis (XRD). Moreover, synergetic effect of milling time and dopant composition on properties such as relative density, hardness, and fracture toughness was studied. The results have shown that mechanical properties of the composites were strongly dependent on the dopant content, structure and the fraction of tetragonal to monoclinic induced by HEBM and subsequent sintering. The extent of retention of t-ZrO 2 depends on the balance of magnitude of the strain energy arising from HEBM and releasing from sintering. In fact, compacts with aggressive HEBM history showed improved fracture toughness. Also it is shown the homogeneous microstructure obtained by HEBM and subsequent sintering promotes better densification.

Sintering of uranium dioxide pellets (UO2) in an oxidizing atmosphere (C O2)

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Santos, G.R.T.

1992-01-01

This work consists in the study of the sintering process of U O 2 pellets in an oxidizing atmosphere. Sintering tests were performed in an CO 2 atmosphere and the influence of temperature and time on the pellets density and microstructure were verified. The results obtained were compared to those from the conventional sintering process and its efficiency was confirmed. (author)

The effect of spark plasma sintering on lithium disilicate glass-ceramics.

Science.gov (United States)

Al Mansour, Fatima; Karpukhina, Natalia; Grasso, Salvatore; Wilson, Rory M; Reece, Mike J; Cattell, Michael J

2015-10-01

To evaluate the effects of spark plasma sintering (SPS) on the microstructure of lithium disilicate glass-ceramics. IPS e.max CAD glass-ceramic samples were processed using spark plasma sintering (SPS) and conventionally sintered (CS) as a comparison. Specimens were sintered at varying temperatures (T1: 840°C, T2: 820°C, T3: 800°C), heating rates (HR1: 150°C/min, HR2: 300°C/min, HR3: 500°C/min) and pressures (P1: 15MPa, P2: 50MPa, P3: 70MPa). IPS e.max Press glass powder samples were densified at 750 and 800°C (50 or 200MPa pressure). Samples were characterized using XRD, HTXRD, and SEM and quantitative image analysis. There was a significant increase in median crystal size (MCS) between the CS and the SPS T1 groups. A statistical difference (p>0.05) in MCS between SPS T1 and SPS T2 groups was observed. The SPS HR3 sample produced a smaller MCS than the CS, SPS HR1 and HR2 groups (pglass samples resulted in fine fibrils or graduated lithium disilicate crystals. The effects of SPS were used to refine the microstructure of IPS e.max CAD lithium disilicate glass-ceramics. Densification by SPS of IPS e.max Press glass resulted in textured and fine nano-crystalline microstructures. SPS generated glass-ceramic microstructures may have unique properties and could be useful in the production of CAD/CAM materials for dentistry. Copyright © 2015 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Microstructural Evolution in Friction Stir Welding of Ti-6Al-4V

Science.gov (United States)

Rubisoff, H.; Querin, J.; Magee, D.; Schneider, J.

2008-01-01

Friction stir welding (FSW) is a thermo-mechanical process that utilizes a nonconsumable rotating pin tool to consolidate a weld joint. In the conventional FSW process, the pin tool is responsible for generating both the heat required to soften the material and the forces necessary to deform and combine the weld seam. As such, the geometry of the pin tool is important to the quality of the weld and the process parameters required to produce the weld. Because the geometry of the pin tool is limitless, a reduced set of pin tools was formed to systematically study their effect on the weldment with respect to mechanical properties and resultant microstructure. In this study 0deg, 15deg, 30deg, 45deg, and 60deg tapered, microwave sintered, tungsten carbide (WC) pin tools were used to FSW Ti-6Al-4V. Transverse sections of the weld were used to test for mechanical properties and to document the microstructure using optical microscopy. X-ray diffraction (XRD) was also used to characterize the microstructure in the welds. FSW results for the 45deg and 60deg pin tools are reported in this paper.

Effect of polymorphism of Al2O3 on the sintering and microstructure of transparent MgAl2O4 ceramics

Science.gov (United States)

Han, Dan; Zhang, Jian; Liu, Peng; Wang, Shiwei

2017-09-01

Transparent MgAl2O4 ceramics were fabricated by reactive sintering in air followed by hot isostatic press treatment using commercial Al2O3 powder (γ-Al2O3 or α-Al2O3) and MgO powder as raw materials. The densification rate, microstructure and optical properties of the ceramics were investigated. Densification temperature of the sample from γ-Al2O3/MgO was lower than that from α-Al2O3/MgO. However, in-line transmission (2 mm thick) of the sample from α-Al2O3/MgO at the wavelength of 600 nm and 1100 nm were respectively 77.7% and 84.3%, higher than those (66.7%, 81.4%) of the sample from γ-Al2O3/MgO. SEM observation revealed that the sample from α-Al2O3/MgO exhibited a homogeneous and pore-free microstructure, while, the sample from γ-Al2O3/MgO showed an apparent bimodal microstructure containing pores.

High-level radioactive waste fixation in sintered vitreous matrix

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Russo, D.O.; Messi de Bernasconi, N.; Audero, M.A.

1987-01-01

The safe storage of high-level wastes from fuel elements reprocessing includes, as a first step, the fixation of the same in materials having a good resistance to the leaching in aqueous medium, such as borosilicate glass. As an alternative to the usual method of the molten glasses, a procedure for the sintering of a powdered glass and waste mixture at lower temperatures (600-700 deg C) has been developed, which minimizes the volatilization of active compounds during the process. Two glasses matrices of different composition and characteristics were used, to which the simulated wastes were added in the ratio of a 10% in weight of oxides. Two sintering techniques were employed 1: cold pressing and further sintering; 2: hot pressing and sintering under pressure. The densities were measured, the microstructure of the samples was analyzed and leaching essays were made in distilled water. The pellet's microstructure was observed by means of optical microscopy, by reflection in polished samples and by transparency in thin slices. The presence of crystalline compounds was analyzed by means of x rays and electron microprobe. The results have shown the convenience to continue with hot pressing essays, because a denser product with a higher resistance to the leaching is thus obtained. (M.E.L.) [es

Influence of various manufacturing parameters on some characteristics of UO2 powders and their sintering behaviour

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mintz, M.H.; Vaknin, Sh.; Kremener, A.; Hadari, Z.

1977-02-01

Various parameters in the process of manufacturing uranium dioxide are examined and their influence on the characteristics and sintering behaviour of the powders obtained established. In addition some correlations between the powder aggregates microstructure and their adhesion properties and sintering behaviour are indicated. Shrinkage during the sintering process is also discussed

Translucence in dental prosthesis based on zirconia ceramics: effect of the sintering parameters

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Santos, C.

2011-01-01

In this work the translucence of Zirconia dental ceramics was evaluated as function of sintering conditions (temperature and isothermal holding time). Samples with 15x15x1mm, were sintered at 1450 to 1600 deg C, with holding of 2h or 4h. Sintered samples were characterized by relative density, crystalline phases and microstructural aspects. Full density was obtained in samples sintered at 1530 and 1600 deg C, which presented higher grain sizes. Na increasing of translucence was observed in samples sintered at 1530 and 1600, correlating these properties with increasing of density and grain size of the samples. (author)

Microstructure and properties of multiphase sintered cermets Fe-Fe2B

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nowacki, J.; Klimek, L.

1998-01-01

The process of multiphase sintering of iron in the vacuum has been analysed. As a result of the process iron-iron boride cermets have been produced. Fe-Fe 2 B cermets were obtained as a result of sintering of the Fe and B pure elements in the vacuum. Attemps at sintering in the solid phase and with the participation of the liquid phase, the Fe-Fe 2 B eutectic, have been made. Metallographic qualitative and quantitative studies, X-ray structural qualitative and qauantitative analysis allowed to determine the structure of Fe 2 B cermets, as well as a description of the kinetics of quantitative changes in phase proportions in the course of sintering. It has been found that their structure varies widely depending on sintering parameters and the composition of the sinters. Measurements of the Fe-Fe 2 B cermets hardness and measurements on wear during dry friction by the pin-on-disc method have shown distinct advantages of the cermets as a modern constructional materials. The hardness of Fe-Fe 2 B cermets, depending on their chemical composition and sintering parameters, ranges widely from 150 to 1500 HV, and their resistance to wear is comparable to that of diffusively boronized steels. FeFe 2 B cermets are a composite material in which iron boride, Fe 2 B, with a hardness of about 1800 HV plays the role of the reinforcement,while iron-iron boride, Fe-Fe 2 B, with a hardness of about 500 HV plays the role of matrix. The eutectic in the spaces between iron boride grains is composed of boron solid solution plates in iron with a hardness of arround 250 HV, and iron boride, Fe 2 B, plates with a hardness of approximaly 1800 HV. The combination of such different materials, a hard reinforcement and a relatively plastic matrix produces favourable properties of the cermet thus produced high hardness (1500 HV) constant over whole cross section of the material, resistance of abrasive wear and acceptable ductility. The properties mentioned above, resulting from the cermet

Development of a dielectric ceramic based on diatomite-titania. Part one: powder preparation and sintering study

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Tavares Elcio Correia de Souza

1997-01-01

Full Text Available This work presents powder preparation and sintering experiments of a mixture diatomite-titania. X-ray diffraction, DTA, TGA as well as chemical and microstructural analyses were made. The sintering process was investigated as a function of sintering temperature and time, mass variation, linear shrinkage and activation energy. The results show that sintering of diatomite-titania could be described by a viscous flow mechanism.

Effects of sintering additives on the microstructural and mechanical properties of the ion-irradiated SiCf/SiC

Science.gov (United States)

Fitriani, Pipit; Sharma, Amit Siddharth; Yoon, Dang-Hyok

2018-05-01

SiCf/SiC composites containing three different types of sintering additives viz. Sc-nitrate, Al2O3-Sc2O3, and Al2O3-Y2O3, were subjected to ion irradiation using 0.2 MeV H+ ions with a fluence of 3 × 1020 ions/m2 at room temperature. Although all composites showed volumetric swelling upon ion irradiation, SiCf/SiC with Sc-nitrate showed the smallest change followed by those with the Al2O3-Sc2O3 and Al2O3-Y2O3 additives. In particular, SiCf/SiC containing the conventional Al2O3-Y2O3 additive revealed significant microstructural changes, such as surface roughening and the formation of cracks and voids, resulting in reduced fiber pullout upon irradiation. On the other hand, the SiCf/SiC with Sc-nitrate showed the highest resistance against ion irradiation without showing any macroscopic changes in surface morphology and mechanical strength, indicating the importance of the sintering additive in NITE-based SiCf/SiC for nuclear structural applications.

Uniform magnetization reversal in dual main-phase (Ce,Nd)2Fe14B sintered magnets with inhomogeneous microstructure

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhang, Le-le; Li, Zhu-bai; Zhang, Xue-feng; Ma, Qiang; Liu, Yan-li; Li, Yong-feng; Zhao, Qian

2017-01-01

The element distribution and the magnetic properties were investigated in (Ce,Nd)–Fe–B sintered magnets prepared by mixing Nd 13.5 Fe 80 B 6.5 and Ce 9 Nd 4.5 Fe 80 B 6.5 powders with different mass ratios. Two main phases exist, but element diffusion is evident, and the chemical composition of the main phase is widely different from that of the master alloy. The Ce element tends to be expelled from the Ce-rich Re 2 Fe 14 B phase. Compared with the Ce-rich main phase, the Nd-rich Re 2 Fe 14 B phase is more stable in structure. Although the microstructure is inhomogeneous and the magnetocrystalline anisotropy is variable, the magnetization reversal is uniform in these dual main-phase magnets, which should ascribe to the existence of the exchange coupling, and magnetization reversal undergoes the nucleation of the reversed domain in irreversible magnetization. It is expected to further improve the coercivity by optimizing the distribution of the Nd-rich main phase in preparing the resource-saving (Ce,Nd) 2 Fe 14 B sintered magnets. (paper)

Effect of sintering processing on microstructure, mechanical properties and corrosion resistance of Ti–24Nb–4Zr–7.9Sn alloy for biomedical applications

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Guo, Shibo; Chu, Aimin; Wu, Haijiang; Cai, Chunbo; Qu, Xuanhui

2014-01-01

Highlights: • Ti–24Nb–4Zr–7.9Sn alloy is prepared by powder metallurgy method. • The alloy prepared at 1250 °C for 2 h has more β-matrix and tiny α-precipitation. • The alloy prepared at 1250 °C for 2 h possesses good mechanical properties. • The alloy prepared at 1250 °C for 2 h exhibits better corrosion resistance. - Abstract: Ti–24Nb–4Zr–7.9Sn alloy was prepared by Powder Metallurgy (PM) method using titanium hydride powder, niobium powder, zirconium powder, and tin powder as raw materials. The effect of sintering processing on microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance was investigated in details. The alloy possessed dominant β-matrix and a little α-precipitation. The mechanical properties of the alloy sintered at 1250 °C for 2 h were better than those of the alloys with other sintering processing, which would avoid stress shielding and thus prevent bone resorption in orthopedic implants applications. As long-term stability in biological environment is required, the electrochemical behaviors in a simulated body fluid (Hank’s solution and simulated saliva solution) were also evaluated. Potentiodynamic polarization curves exhibited that the sample sintered at 1250 °C for 2 h had better corrosion properties than those of other sintering processing. The good corrosion resistance combined with better mechanical biocompatibility made the Ti–24Nb–4Zr–7.9Sn alloy suitable for use as orthopedic implants

Magnetic properties of sintered high energy sm-co and nd-fe-b magnets

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Talijan Nadežda M.

2006-01-01

Full Text Available Magnetic properties of permanent magnetic materials based on intermetallic compounds of Sm-Co and Nd-Fe-B are in direct dependence on the microstructure. In the first part of this paper, having in mind the importance of the regime of sintering and heat treatment to obtain the optimal magnetic structure, yet another approach in defining the most adequate technological parameters of the sintering process for applied heat treatment conditions was made. The goal of these investigations was to use the correlation that exists between sintering conditions (temperature and time and intensity of the diffraction peak of the (111 plane of the SmCo5 phase to optimize. In the second part a brief overview of high energy magnetic materials based on Nd-Fe-B is presented with special emphasis to the current research and development of high remanent nanocomposite magnetic materials based on Nd-Fe-B alloys with a reduced Nd content. Part of experimental results gained during research of the sintering process of SmCo5 magnetic materials were realized and published earlier. The scientific meeting devoted to the 60th anniversary of Frankel’s theory of sintering was an opportunity to show once more the importance and role of sintering in optimization of the magnetic microstructure of sintered Sm Co5 magnetic materials.

Consolidation of W–Ta composites: Hot isostatic pressing and spark and pulse plasma sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Dias, M., E-mail: marta.dias@itn.pt [Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa (Portugal); Guerreiro, F. [Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa (Portugal); Correia, J.B. [LNEG, Laboratório Nacional de Energia e Geologia, Estrada do Paço do Lumiar, 1649-038 Lisboa (Portugal); Galatanu, A. [National Institute of Materials Physics, Atomistilor 105 bis Bucharest-Magurele, 077125 Ilfov (Romania); Rosiński, M. [Warsaw University of Technology, Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering, Warsaw (Poland); Monge, M.A.; Munoz, A. [Departamento de Física, Univerdidad Carlos III de Madrid, Avd. de la Universidad 30, 28911 Madrid (Spain); Alves, E. [Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa (Portugal); Carvalho, P.A. [Instituto de Plasmas e Fusão Nuclear, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa (Portugal); CeFEMA, Instituto Superior Técnico, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Rovisco Pais, 1049-001 Lisboa (Portugal)

2015-10-15

Highlights: • Consolidation of W–Ta composites using three techniques: HIP, SPS and PPS. • Comparison of consolidation methods in terms of W–Ta interdiffusion and densification. • Microstructure analysis in terms of oxides formation. - Abstract: Composites consisting of tantalum fiber/powder dispersed in a nanostructured W matrix have been consolidated by spark and pulse plasma sintering as well as by hot isostatic pressing. The microstructural observations revealed that the tungsten–tantalum fiber composites consolidated by hot isostatic pressing and pulse plasma sintering presented a continuous layer of Ta{sub 2}O{sub 5} phase at the W/Ta interfaces, while the samples consolidated by spark plasma sintering evidenced a Ta + Ta{sub 2}O{sub 5} eutectic mixture due to the higher temperature of this consolidation process. Similar results have been obtained for the tungsten–tantalum powder composites. A (W, Ta) solid solution was detected around the prior nanostructured W particles in tungsten–tantalum powder composites consolidated by spark and pulse plasma sintering. Higher densifications were obtained for composites consolidated by hot isostatic pressing and pulse plasma sintering.

Microstructural Evolution of Ni-Sn Transient Liquid Phase Sintering Bond during High-Temperature Aging

Science.gov (United States)

Feng, Hongliang; Huang, Jihua; Peng, Xianwen; Lv, Zhiwei; Wang, Yue; Yang, Jian; Chen, Shuhai; Zhao, Xingke

2018-05-01

For high-temperature-resistant packaging of new generation power chip, a chip packaging simulation structure of Ni/Ni-Sn/Ni was bonded by a transient liquid-phase sintering process. High-temperature aging experiments were carried out to investigate joint heat stability. The microstructural evolution and mechanism during aging, and mechanical properties after aging were analyzed. The results show that the 30Ni-70Sn bonding layer as-bonded at 340°C for 240 min is mainly composed of Ni3Sn4 and residual Ni particles. When aged at 350°C, because of the difficulty of nucleation for Ni3Sn and quite slow growth of Ni3Sn2, the bonding layer is stable and the strength of that doesn't change obviously with aging time. When aging temperature increased to 500°C, however, the residual Ni particles were gradually dissolved and the bonding layer formed a stable structure with dominated Ni3Sn2 after 36 h. Meanwhile, due to the volume shrinkage (4.43%) from Ni3Sn2 formation, a number of voids were formed. The shear strength shows an increase, resulting from Ni3Sn2 formation, but then it decreases slightly caused by voids. After aging at 500°C for 100 h, shear strength is still maintained at 29.6 MPa. In addition, the mechanism of void formation was analyzed and microstructural evolution model was also established.

Contribution to the study of the microstructure of uranium dioxide (1962); Contribution a l'etude de la microstructure du dioxyde d'uranium (1962)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Porneuf, A [Commissariat a l' Energie Atomique, Saclay (France). Centre d' Etudes Nucleaires

1960-05-15

The microstructure of sintered uranium dioxide is studied in relation with several parameters, specially the sintering temperatures and atmospheres. The external surface and the internal microstructure of the sintered are examined, using fractography and ceramography. Various techniques for preparing surfaces (mechanical and electrolytic polishing) and for revealing the structure (chemical and anodic attack, ionic bombardment oxidation) have been experienced and compared. Patterns similar to those revealed in metals and probably related with interactions between dislocations and vacancies have been observed. (author) [French] La microstructure de frittes d'oxyde d'uranium est etudiee en fonction de divers parametres, en particulier de la temperature et de l'atmosphere de frittage, par examen de la surface externe des frittes, puis de leur microstructure interne (fractographie, ceramographie). Differentes techniques de preparation des surfaces (polissage mecanique ou electrolytique) et de revelation de la structure (attaque chimique ou anodique, bombardement ionique, oxydation preferentielle) ont ete experimentees et comparees. Des figures comparables a celles revelees dans les metaux et liees probablement a des interactions entre dislocations et lacunes ont ete observees. (auteur)

Liquid Phase Sintering of Highly Alloyed Stainless Steel

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Mathiesen, Troels

1996-01-01

Liquid phase sintering of stainless steel is usually applied to improve corrosion resistance by obtaining a material without an open pore system. The dense structure normally also give a higher strength when compared to conventional sintered steel. Liquid phase sintrering based on addition...... of boride to AISI 316L type steels have previously been studied, but were found to be sensitive to intergranular corrosion due to formation of intermetallic phases rich in chromium and molybdenum. In order to improve this system further, new investigations have focused on the use of higher alloyed stainless...... steel as base material. The stainless base powders were added different amounts and types of boride and sintered in hydrogen at different temperatures and times in a laboratory furnace. During sintering the outlet gas was analyzed and subsequently related to the obtained microstructure. Thermodynamic...

Shape distortion and dimensional precision in tungsten heavy alloy liquid phase sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wuwen Yi; German, R.M.; Lu, P.K.

2001-01-01

Microstructure effects on densification and shape distortion in liquid phase sintering of tungsten heavy alloy were investigated. Microstructure parameters such as the solid volume fraction, dihedral angle, initial porosity, and pore size were varied to measure densification and distortion behavior during LPS using W-Ni-Cu alloys. Green compacts were formed using ethylene-bis-stearamide as a pore-forming agent with the amount of polymer controlling the initial porosity. Different initial pore sizes were generated by varying the polymer particle size. Dihedral angle was varied by changing the Ni:Cu ratio in the alloys. Finally, the solid volume fraction was adjusted via the tungsten content. Distortion was quantified using profiles determined with a coordinate measuring machine to calculate a distortion parameter. Sintering results showed that solid volume fraction and dihedral angle are the dominant factors on densification and distortion during liquid phase sintering. Distortion decreases with increasing solid volume fraction and dihedral angle, while initial porosity and pore size have no observable effect on distortion at nearly full densification. Various strategies emerge to improve distortion control in liquid phase sintering. (author)

Improving NASICON Sinterability through Crystallization under High-Frequency Electrical Fields

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lisenker, Ilya; Stoldt, Conrad R., E-mail: stoldt@colorado.edu [Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, CO (United States)

2016-03-31

The effect of high-frequency (HF) electric fields on the crystallization and sintering rates of a lithium aluminum germanium phosphate (LAGP) ion conducting ceramic was investigated. LAGP with the nominal composition Li{sub 1.5}Al{sub 0.5}Ge{sub 1.5}(PO{sub 4}){sub 3} was crystallized and sintered, both conventionally and under effect of electrical field. Electrical field application, of 300 V/cm at 1 MHz, produced up to a 40% improvement in sintering rate of LAGP that was crystallized and sintered under the HF field. Heat sink effect of the electrodes appears to arrest thermal runaway and subsequent flash behavior. Sintered pellets were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, TEM, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy to compare conventionally and field-sintered processes. The as-sintered structure appears largely unaffected by the field as the sintering curves tend to converge beyond initial stages of sintering. Differences in densities and microstructure after 1 h of sintering were minor with measured sintering strains of 31 vs. 26% with and without field, respectively. Ionic conductivity of the sintered pellets was evaluated, and no deterioration due to the use of HF field was noted, though capacitance of grain boundaries due to secondary phases was significantly increased.

Disruption of an Alumina Layer During Sintering of Aluminium in Nitrogen

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Pieczonka T.

2017-06-01

Full Text Available Aluminium oxide layer on aluminium particles cannot be avoided. However, to make the metal-metal contacts possible, this sintering barrier has to be overcome in some way, necessarily to form sintering necks and their development. It is postulated that the disruption of alumina layer under sintering conditions may originate physically and chemically. Additionally, to sinter successfully non alloyed aluminium powder in nitrogen, the operation of both types mechanism is required. It is to be noted that metallic aluminium surface has to be available to initiate reactions between aluminium and the sintering atmosphere, i.e. mechanical disruption of alumina film precedes the chemical reactions, and only then chemically induced mechanisms may develop. Dilatometry, gravimetric and differential thermal analyses, and microstructure investigations were used to study the sintering response of aluminium at 620°C in nitrogen, which is the only sintering atmosphere producing shrinkage.

Microwave heating application in calcination and SYNROC formation

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ambashta, R.D.; Wattal, P.K.; Malav, R.K.; Mallik, G.K.

2006-01-01

Microwave for calcination of titanate based ceramic wasteform (SYNROC) is being reported for the first time in this paper. Although major constituents in SYNROC were non microwave active, the combination with microwave active constituents rendered the mixture calcinable. Calcine was sintered at 1150 degC under hot uniaxial conditions at an applied pressure of ∼30 MPa. XRD shows presence of major phases of SYNROC in the compacted sample. (author)

Influence of Sintering Temperature on Hardness and Wear Properties of TiN Nano Reinforced SAF 2205

Science.gov (United States)

Oke, S. R.; Ige, O. O.; E Falodun, O.; Obadele, B. A.; Mphalele, M. R.; Olubambi, P. A.

2017-12-01

Conventional duplex stainless steel degrade in wear and mechanical properties at high temperature. Attempts have been made by researchers to solve this problems leading to the dispersion of second phase particles into duplex matrix. Powder metallurgy methods have been used to fabricate dispersion strengthened steels with a challenge of obtaining fully dense composite and grain growth. This could be resolved by appropriate selection of sintering parameters especially temperature. In this research, spark plasma sintering was utilized to fabricate nanostructured duplex stainless steel grade SAF 2205 with 5 wt.% nano TiN addition at different temperatures ranging from 1000 °C to 1200 °C. The effect of sintering temperature on the microstructure, density, hardness and wear of the samples was investigated. The results showed that the densities and grain sizes of the sintered nanocomposites increased with increasing the sintering temperature. The microstructures reveal ferrite and austenite grains with fine precipitates within the ferrite grains. The study of the hardness and wear behaviors, of the samples indicated that the optimum properties were obtained for the sintering temperature of 1150 °C.

Reduction of surface erosion caused by helium blistering in sintered beryllium and sintered aluminum powder

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Das, S.K.; Kaminsky, M.

1976-01-01

Studies have been conducted to find materials with microstructures which minimize the formation of blisters. A promising class of materials appears to be sintered metal powder with small average grain sizes and low atomic number Z. Studies of the surface erosion of sintered aluminum powder (SAP 895) and of aluminum held at 400 0 C due to blistering by 100 keV helium ions have been conducted and the results are compared to those obtained earlier for room temperature irradiation. A significant reduction of the erosion rate in SAP 895 in comparison to annealed aluminum and SAP 930 is observed. In addition results on the blistering of sintered beryllium powder (type I) irradiated at room temperature and 600 0 C by 100 keV helium ions are given. These results will be compared with those reported recently for vacuum cast beryllium foil and a foil of sintered beryllium powder (type II) which was fabricated differently, than type I. For room temperature irradiation only a few blisters could be observed in sintered beryllium powder type I and type II and they are smaller in size and in number than in vacuum cast beryllium. For irradiation at 600 0 C large scale exfoliation of blisters was observed for vacuum cast beryllium but much less exfoliation was seen for sintered beryllium powder, type I, and type II. The results show a reduction in erosion rate cast beryllium, for both room temperature and 600 0 C

Study on Sintering Mechanism of Stainless Steel Fiber Felts by X-ray Computed Tomography

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Jun Ma

2016-01-01

Full Text Available The microstructure evolution of Fe-17 wt. % Cr-12 wt. % Ni-2 wt. % Mo stainless steel fiber felts during the fast sintering process was investigated by the synchrotron radiation X-ray computed tomography technique. The equation of dynamics of stable inter-fiber neck growth was established for the first time based on the geometry model of sintering joints of two fibers and Kucsynski’s two-sphere model. The specific evolutions of different kinds of sintering joints were observed in the three-dimensional images. The sintering mechanisms during sintering were proposed as plastic flow and grain boundary diffusion, the former leading to a quick growth of sintering joints.

Microwave-assisted reactive sintering and lithium ion conductivity of Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 solid electrolyte

Science.gov (United States)

Hallopeau, Leopold; Bregiroux, Damien; Rousse, Gwenaëlle; Portehault, David; Stevens, Philippe; Toussaint, Gwenaëlle; Laberty-Robert, Christel

2018-02-01

Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 (LATP) materials are made of a three-dimensional framework of TiO6 octahedra and PO4 tetrahedra, which provides several positions for Li+ ions. The resulting high ionic conductivity is promising to yield electrolytes for all-solid-state Li-ion batteries. In order to elaborate dense ceramics, conventional sintering methods often use high temperature (≥1000 °C) with long dwelling times (several hours) to achieve high relative density (∼90%). In this work, an innovative synthesis and processing approach is proposed. A fast and easy processing technique called microwave-assisted reactive sintering is used to both synthesize and sinter LATP ceramics with suitable properties in one single step. Pure and crystalline LATP ceramics can be achieved in only 10 min at 890 °C starting from amorphous, compacted LATP's precursors powders. Despite a relative density of 88%, the ionic conductivity measured at ambient temperature (3.15 × 10-4 S cm-1) is among the best reported so far. The study of the activation energy for Li+ conduction confirms the high quality of the ceramic (purity and crystallinity) achieved by using this new approach, thus emphasizing its interest for making ion-conducting ceramics in a simple and fast way.

Photoacoustic spectroscopy investigation of sintered zinc-tin-oxide ceramics

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Ivetić Tamara B.

2007-01-01

Full Text Available In this paper the changes that occurred in differently activated ZnO-SnO2 and sintered samples were investigated using photoacoustic spectroscopy. ZnO and SnO2 powders, mixed in the molar ratio 2:1, were mechanically activated in a planetary ball mill for 10-160 min. The mixtures were pres­sed and isothermally sintered at 1300°C for two hours. X-ray diffraction analysis of the obtained sintered samples was performed in order to investigate changes of the phase composition and confirmed only the presence of a pure zinc stannate (Zn2SnO4 phase in all the sintered samples as a result of the solid state reaction and reaction sintering between the starting ZnO and SnO2 powders. The microstructure of the sintered sam­ples was examined by scanning electron microscopy and showed that mechanical activation leads to the formation of a structure with reduced particle size which accelerates spinel formation. Grain growth of the spinel phase slows down the densification process and together with the agglomerates formed during mechanical activation causes the appearance of a porous microstructure. The photoacoustic (PA phase and amplitude spectra of the sintered samples were recorded as a function of the chopped frequency of the laser beam used (red laser with a power of 25 mW, λ=632 nm in a thermal-transmission detection configuration. PA experimental data were analyzed using the Rosenzweig-Gersho thermal-piston model, which enabled determination of the thermal diffusivity, ZT (m2s-1, diffusion coefficient of the minority free carriers D (m2s-1 and the optical absorption coefficient (m-1. The detected differences of the measured thermal-electrical properties of the obtained Zn2SnO4 ceramics indicate changes in the material induced by the different preparation procedure of the starting powders before the sintering process.

Development of low-power loss Mn–Zn ferrites using microwave ...

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Unknown

sinusoidal voltage of 25 V with frequency, 1 MHz. The efficiency and surface rise of temperature of trans- former were found to be high and low, respectively. Keywords. Ferrites; microwave sintering; conventional sintering; power loss; hysteresis loss; eddy current loss; transformer; high frequency applications. 1. Introduction.

Investigation of the Sintering Process Using Non-Contact Electromagnetic Acoustic Transducers

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

James C. Foley; David K. Rehbein; Daniel J. Barnard

2001-01-01

In-situ characterizations of green state part density and sintering state have long been desired in the powder metal community. Recent advances in non-contact electromagnetic acoustic transducer (EMAT) technology have enabled in-situ monitoring of acoustic amplitude and velocity as sintering proceeds. Samples were made from elemental powders of Al (99.99%), Al (99.7%), Ag, (99.99%), Cu (99.99%) and Fe (99.9%). The powders were pressed in a uniaxial die and examined with acoustic waves for changes in velocity and amplitude during sintering for the samples containing Al, Ag, and Cu. The changes in acoustic properties were correlated with sample microstructures and mechanical properties. Evolution of a series of reverberating echoes during sintering is shown to provide information on the state of sintering, and changes in sintering kinetics as well as having the potential for detection of interior flaws

Full densification of inkjet-printed copper conductive tracks on a flexible substrate utilizing a hydrogen plasma sintering

Science.gov (United States)

Kwon, Young-Tae; Lee, Young-In; Kim, Seil; Lee, Kun-Jae; Choa, Yong-Ho

2017-02-01

Low temperature sintering techniques are crucial in developing flexible printed electronics. In this work, we demonstrate a novel hydrogen plasma sintering method that achieves a full reduction and densification of inkjet-printed patterns using a copper complex ion ink. After inkjet printing on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates, both hydrogen plasma and conventional hydrogen thermal treatment were employed to compare the resulting microstructures, electrical properties and anti-oxidation behavior. The plasma treated pattern shows a fully densified microstructure with a resistivity of 3.23 μΩ cm, while the thermally treated pattern shows a relatively poor microstructure and high resistivity. In addition, the hydrogen plasma-treated copper pattern retains its electrical resistivity for one month without any significant decrease. This novel hydrogen plasma sintering technique could be used to produce conductive patterns with excellent electrical properties, allowing for highly reliable flexible printed electronics.

Ageing sintered silver: Relationship between tensile behavior, mechanical properties and the nanoporous structure evolution

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gadaud, Pascal; Caccuri, Vincenzo; Bertheau, Denis [Institut Pprime, Dept. Phys. Mech. Mat., UPR CNRS 3346, ENSMA, Université de Poitiers, 1 av. Clément Ader, Téléport 2, 86961 Futuroscope – Chasseneuil (France); Carr, James [HMXIF, Materials Science Centre, The University of Manchester, M13 9PL (United Kingdom); Milhet, Xavier, E-mail: xavier.milhet@ensma.fr [Institut Pprime, Dept. Phys. Mech. Mat., UPR CNRS 3346, ENSMA, Université de Poitiers, 1 av. Clément Ader, Téléport 2, 86961 Futuroscope – Chasseneuil (France)

2016-07-04

Silver pastes sintering is a potential candidate for die bonding in power electronic modules. The joints, obtained by sintering, exhibit a significant pore fraction thus reducing the density of the material compared to bulk silver. This was shown to alter drastically the mechanical properties (Young's modulus, yield strength and ultimate tensile stress) at room temperature. While careful analysis of the microstructure has been reported for the as-sintered material, little is known about its quantitative evolution (pores and grains) during thermal ageing. To address this issue, sintered bulk specimens and sintered joints were aged either under isothermal conditions (125 °C up to 1500 h) or under thermal cycling (between −40 °C/+125 °C with 30 min dwell time at each temperature for 2400 cycles). Under these conditions, it is shown that the density of the material does not change but the sub-micron porosity evolves towards a broader size distribution, consistent with Oswald ripening. It is also shown that only the step at 125 °C during the non-isothermal ageing is responsible for the microstructure evolution: isothermal ageing at high temperature can be regarded as a useful tool to perform accelerated ageing tests. Tensile properties are investigated as both a function of ageing time and a function of density. It is shown that the elastic properties do not evolve with the ageing time unlike the plastic properties. This is discussed as a function of the material microstructure evolution.

Rf and microwave measurements at Los Alamos on oxide superconductors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Migliori, A.; Reagor, D.W.; Peterson, D.E.; Willis, J.O.; Fisk, Z.; Smith, R.C.

1988-01-01

Los Alamos National Laboratory has made a substantial commitment to develop oxide superconductors for RF and microwave cavity applications. The program involves materials development, complete microstructure characterization, static thermal and electrical characterization, RF loss measurements and microwave complex-conductivity measurements. Of the high-frequency techniques, three are nearing completion and one has produced preliminary results. Those still under development include a 3 GHz Nb cavity capable of 4 K operation, a LN 2 -cooled 2.25 GHz copper cavity having a Q of 2 x 10 4 , capable of operation from 15 K to 300 K, and a picosecond-laser/photo-diode driven microstripline technique which will provide complex conductivity information from 20 GHz to 200 GHz and from 10 K to 300 K. Because all of the techniques employed sense the impedance of the samples, their sensitivity to intrinsic properties such as conductivity or surface resistance is dependent on sample geometry. However, for easily handled samples, the Nb cavity can detect losses at least four order of magnitude lower than copper, the copper cavity can detect losses two orders of magnitude lower than copper and the microstripline can detect losses comparable to copper. The technique which has produced results is a coaxial microwave bridge. In this work they report results of measurements on sintered samples using the bridge; future work will concentrate on films. 2 references, 1 figure

Effect of hydrogen on the microstructure and electrochemical properties of Si nanoparticles synthesized by microwave plasma

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Koo, Jeongboon; Lee, Jeongeun; Kim, Joonsoo; Jang, Boyun, E-mail: byjang@kier.re.kr

2016-09-01

We synthesized silicon (Si) nanoparticles using an atmospheric microwave plasma process, and investigated the effects of hydrogen (H{sub 2}) injection on their microstructure during the synthesis. Two nozzles were applied to inject H{sub 2} (swirling and rectilinear H{sub 2}). Our microstructural analysis indicated that the amount and method of H{sub 2} injection were critical for completion of the reaction from silicon tetrachloride (SiCl{sub 4}) to Si, as well as to obtain highly crystalline Si nanoparticles. The swirling H{sub 2} was especially critical due to its formation of vortex flow, which allowed relatively long residence time of the H-ions in plasma. The Si nanoparticles synthesized by the atmospheric plasma process had core-shell structures that consisted of crystalline Si cores with amorphous SiO{sub x} shells of 5–15 nm thickness. We also investigated the feasibility of the synthesized Si nanoparticles as anode materials in a lithium-ion battery (LIB). For the core-shell structured Si nanoparticles, we obtained the first reversible capacity of 1204 mAhg{sup −1}, and a capacity retention of 82.2% at the 50{sup th} cycle. - Highlights: • We synthesized Si nanoparticles by an atmospheric microwave plasma process. • We investigated the effects of injected H{sub 2} on the microstructures of Si nanoparticles. • Swirling H{sub 2} was critical, due to the formation of vortex flow in plasma. • The synthesized Si nanoparticles had core (crystalline Si)-shell (SiO{sub x}) structures. • The electrochemical properties depend on its core-shell structures as LIB anode.

Mechanisms and mechanics of shape loss during supersolidus liquid-phase sintering

Science.gov (United States)

Lal, Anand

Rapid sinter densification of relatively coarse prealloyed powders is possible by exceeding the solidus temperature in an approach termed supersolidus liquid phase sintering (SLPS). However, narrow processing windows for densification without distortion often limit this process. The liquid films at the grain boundaries that are responsible for densification also reduce the structural rigidity of components. Hence, components tend to slump under their own weight. Thus, the present study investigates shape loss during SLPS and rationalizes the processing and material factors with regard to separating densification from distortion. Experiments are performed on various prealloyed powders, including bronze, 316L stainless steel, and T15 tool steel. Differential thermal analysis, dilatometry, and in situ video imaging of sintering compacts are used to follow melting, densification, and distortion, respectively. Further, density and dimensional measurements are performed on sintered compacts. Results indicate a dependence of distortion on the sintering temperature and time, compact size, and melting behavior of the alloy. It is shown that the sintering temperature window, where high-density, precise components are obtained, can be widened for 316L stainless steel by boron addition. For the first time, a beam bending technique is used to measure the macroscopic apparent viscosity of semisolid bronze. The viscosity drops with temperature above the solidus and lies in the range of 108 to 106 Pa-s. Additionally, the in situ transverse rupture strength of bronze is measured to demonstrate the softening above the solidus temperature. Further, microstructural measurements are performed to enable correlation with the slumping behavior and viscosity. A model combining the deformation mechanisms, driving forces, and microstructural characteristics is developed to predict the conditions for densification and distortion onset. The microstructure is also correlated with the magnitude

Contribution to the study of the microstructure of uranium dioxide (1962); Contribution a l'etude de la microstructure du dioxyde d'uranium (1962)

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Porneuf, A. [Commissariat a l' Energie Atomique, Saclay (France). Centre d' Etudes Nucleaires

1960-05-15

The microstructure of sintered uranium dioxide is studied in relation with several parameters, specially the sintering temperatures and atmospheres. The external surface and the internal microstructure of the sintered are examined, using fractography and ceramography. Various techniques for preparing surfaces (mechanical and electrolytic polishing) and for revealing the structure (chemical and anodic attack, ionic bombardment oxidation) have been experienced and compared. Patterns similar to those revealed in metals and probably related with interactions between dislocations and vacancies have been observed. (author) [French] La microstructure de frittes d'oxyde d'uranium est etudiee en fonction de divers parametres, en particulier de la temperature et de l'atmosphere de frittage, par examen de la surface externe des frittes, puis de leur microstructure interne (fractographie, ceramographie). Differentes techniques de preparation des surfaces (polissage mecanique ou electrolytique) et de revelation de la structure (attaque chimique ou anodique, bombardement ionique, oxydation preferentielle) ont ete experimentees et comparees. Des figures comparables a celles revelees dans les metaux et liees probablement a des interactions entre dislocations et lacunes ont ete observees. (auteur)

Microstructure characteristic and excellent corrosion protection properties of sealed Zn-TiO{sub 2} composite coating for sintered NdFeB magnet

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yang Xiaokui [School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715 (China); Li Qing, E-mail: liqingd@swu.edu.c [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715 (China); Zhang Shiyan; Liu Fang; Wang Shaoyin; Zhang Haixiao [School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715 (China)

2010-04-09

In this paper, a protective sealed Zn-TiO{sub 2} composite coating (SCC) was prepared on sintered NdFeB magnet by electrodeposition and sol-gel combined technique. For a comparison, unsealed Zn-TiO{sub 2} composite coating (UCC) was also studied. The surface morphologies of composite coating were studied using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The microstructure of composite coatings and structure of sealing layer were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectrum, respectively. The anticorrosive properties of composite coatings in neutral 3.5 wt.% NaCl solutions were evaluated by potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technique. The results of corrosion tests showed that due to the blocking effect of sealing layer, SCC could suppress the corrosion process by holding back the transfer or diffusion of corrosive medium, and therefore showed the excellent corrosion protection properties for sintered NdFeB magnet.

Sintering study and properties of alumina matrix composites reinforced with NbC, TiC and TaC

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tonello, K.P.S.; Trombini, V.; Bressiani, A.H.A.; Bressiani, J.C.

2011-01-01

Al_2O_3 based composite materials are very promising due to their good mechanical properties, and have been studied as an alternative for the production of materials with high wear resistance. In alumina based composites the addition of carbides can change and improve the sintering and mechanical properties of materials. The objective was to study the effect of adding small concentrations of NbC, TaC and TiC in the sintering, microstructure and mechanical properties of alumina composites. The sintering study was conducted in dilatometer, with heating rate of 20 ° C / min. up to 1800 ° C, and the study of microstructure and properties of the composites was performed in hot pressed samples, sintered at 1500°C/30min with constant pressure of 20MPa. The results indicated that the addition of carbides modified the sintering behavior and also indicated that the hardness and fracture toughness were improved by the presence of carbide particles. (author)

Microwave processing of ceramic oxide filaments

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vogt, G.J.; Katz, J.D. [Los Alamos National Laboratory, NM (United States)

1995-05-01

The objective of the microwave filament processing project is to develop microwave techniques at 2.45 GHZ to manufacture continuous ceramic oxide filaments. Microwave processing uses the volumetric absorption of microwave power in oxide filament tows to drive off process solvents, to burn out organic binders, and to sinter the dried fibers to produce flexible, high-strength ceramic filaments. The technical goal is to advance filament processing technology by microwave heating more rapidly with less energy and at a lower cost than conventional processing, but with the same quality as conventional processing. The manufacturing goal is to collaborate with the 3M Company, a US manufacturer of ceramic oxide filaments, to evaluate the technology using a prototype filament system and to transfer the microwave technology to the 3M Company.

Microstructural and mechanical characterization of injection molded 718 superalloy powders

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Özgün, Özgür [Bingol University, Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, Mechanical Eng. Dep., 12000 Bingol (Turkey); Gülsoy, H. Özkan, E-mail: ogulsoy@marmara.edu.tr [Marmara University, Technology Faculty, Metallurgy and Materials Eng. Dep., 34722 Istanbul (Turkey); Yılmaz, Ramazan [Sakarya University, Technology Faculty, Metallurgy and Materials Eng. Dep., 54187 Sakarya (Turkey); Fındık, Fehim [Sakarya University, Technology Faculty, Metallurgy and Materials Eng. Dep., 54187 Sakarya (Turkey) and International University of Sarajevo, Faculty of Engineering and Natural Sciences, Department of Mechanical Engineering, 71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina (Bosnia and Herzegowina)

2013-11-05

Highlights: •Microstructural and mechanical properties of injection molded Nickel 718 superalloy were studied. •The maximum sintered density achieved this study was 97.3% at 1290 °C for 3 hours. •Tensile strength of 1022 MPa and elongation of 5.3% were achieved for sintered-heat treated samples. -- Abstract: This study concerns with the determination of optimum production parameters for injection molding 718 superalloy parts. And at the same time, microstructural and mechanical characterization of these produced parts was also carried out. At the initial stage, 718 superalloy powders were mixed with a multi-component binder system for preparing feedstock. Then the prepared feedstock was granulated and shaped by injection molding. Following this operation, the shaped samples were subjected to the debinding process. These samples were sintered at different temperatures for various times. Samples sintered under the condition that gave way to the highest relative density (3 h at 1290 °C) were solution treated and aged respectively. Sintered, solution treated and aged samples were separately subjected to microstructural and mechanical characterization. Microstructural characterization operations such as X-ray diffraction, optical microscope (OM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM) and elemental analysis showed that using polymeric binder system led to plentiful carbide precipitates to be occurred in the injection molded samples. It is also observed that the volume fractions of the intermetallic phases (γ′ and γ″) obtained by aging treatment were decreased due to the plentiful carbide precipitation in the samples. Mechanical characterization was performed by hardness measurements and tensile tests.

Use of the inverse temperature profile in microwave processing of advanced ceramics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Binner, J.G.P.; Al-Dawery, I.A.; Aneziris, C.; Cross, T.E.

1992-01-01

Attempts are being made to exploit the inverse temperature profile which can be developed with microwave heating with respect to the processing of certain advanced ceramics. This paper discusses the results obtained to date during the microwave sintering of YBCO high-T c superconductors and the microwave reaction bonding of silicon nitride

Properties of Bulk Sintered Silver As a Function of Porosity

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Wereszczak, Andrew A [ORNL; Vuono, Daniel J [ORNL; Wang, Hsin [ORNL; Ferber, Mattison K [ORNL; Liang, Zhenxian [ORNL

2012-06-01

This report summarizes a study where various properties of bulk-sintered silver were investigated over a range of porosity. This work was conducted within the National Transportation Research Center's Power Device Packaging project that is part of the DOE Vehicle Technologies Advanced Power Electronics and Electric Motors Program. Sintered silver, as an interconnect material in power electronics, inherently has porosity in its produced structure because of the way it is made. Therefore, interest existed in this study to examine if that porosity affected electrical properties, thermal properties, and mechanical properties because any dependencies could affect the intended function (e.g., thermal transfer, mechanical stress relief, etc.) or reliability of that interconnect layer and alter how its performance is modeled. Disks of bulk-sintered silver were fabricated using different starting silver pastes and different sintering conditions to promote different amounts of porosity. Test coupons were harvested out of the disks to measure electrical resistivity and electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, coefficient of thermal expansion, elastic modulus, Poisson's ratio, and yield stress. The authors fully recognize that the microstructure of processed bulk silver coupons may indeed not be identical to the microstructure produced in thin (20-50 microns) layers of sintered silver. However, measuring these same properties with such a thin actual structure is very difficult, requires very specialized specimen preparation and unique testing instrumentation, is expensive, and has experimental shortfalls of its own, so the authors concluded that the herein measured responses using processed bulk sintered silver coupons would be sufficient to determine acceptable values of those properties. Almost all the investigated properties of bulk sintered silver changed with porosity content within a range of 3-38% porosity. Electrical resistivity, electrical conductivity

Mechanical characterization of microwave sintered zinc oxide

Indian Academy of Sciences (India)

Unknown

ultrasonic time of flight measurement using a 15 MHz transducer. .... Figure 1. Microwave heating system (a. thermocouple, b. porous refractory box, c. sample, d. fibrous insulation material, e. power control, f. timer and g. display panel). a b c d.

Compacted and Sintered Microstructure Depending on Uranium Powder Size in Zr-U Metallic Fuel

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yun, Chang Gun; Jun, Hyun-Joon; Ju, Jung Hwan; Lee, Ho Jin; Lee, Chong-Tak; Kim, Hyung Lae [Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute, Daejeon (Korea, Republic of)

2017-03-15

In case of the uranium (U) and zirconium (Zr) powders which have been utilized for the production of a metallic fuel in the various nuclear applications, the homogenous distribution of U powders in the Zr-U pellet has influenced significantly on the nuclear fuel performance. The inhomogeneity in a powder process was changed by various intricate factors, e.g. powder size, shape, distribution and so on. Particularly, the U inhomogeneity in the Zr-U pellets occurs by segregation derived from the great gaps of densities between Zr and U during compaction of the mixed powders. In this study, the relationship between powder size and homogeneity was investigated by using the different-sized U powders. The microstructure in Zr-U pellets reveals more homogeneity when the weight ration of Zr and U powders are close to 1. In addition, homogeneous pellets which were produced by fine U powders have higher density because the homogeneity affects the alloying reaction during sintering and the densification behavior of pore induced by powder size.

Effect of processing variables on mechanical properties of sintered manganese steels Fe-3%Mn-0.8%C

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Sulowski, M.; Cias, A.

1998-01-01

The powder metallurgy route may allow sintered manganese steels to be made based on pure iron powder and ferromanganese powder with control over alloy microstructure. The factors that contribute to the mechanical properties of sintered Fe-3%Mn-0.8%C manganese steel, such as the sintering atmosphere, dew point, sintering temperature, cooling rate are summarised. The paper shows the influence of these parameters on the tensile strength, yield strength, transverse rupture strength, impact strength and hardness. It is showed that tensile high strength level higher than those of many present sintered steels can be obtained already in the as-sintered condition. (author)

Processing of pure titanium containing titanium-based reinforcing ceramics additives using spark plasma sintering

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Mondiu Olayinka DUROWOJU

2017-06-01

Full Text Available The densification behaviour, microstructural changes and hardness characteristics during spark plasma sintering of CP-Ti reinforced with TiC, TiN, TiCN and TiB2 were investigated. Commercially pure Ti powders were dry mixed with varied amounts (2.5 and 5 wt. % of the ceramic additives using a T2F Turbula mixer for 5 h and at a speed of 49 rpm. The blended composite powders were then sintered using spark plasma sintering system (model HHPD-25 from FCT Germany at a heating rate of 100oC min-1, dwell time of 5 min and sintering temperature of 950ºC. The sintering of CP-Ti was used as a base study to select the proper spark plasma sintering temperature for full density. Densification was monitored through analysis of the recorded punch displacement and the measured density of the sintered samples using Archimedes method. High densities ranging from 97.8% for 5% TiB2 addition to 99.6% for 5% TiCN addition were achieved at a relatively low temperature of 950°C. Microstructural analyses show a uniform distribution of the additives and finer structure showing their inhibitive effect on grain growth. An improved hardness was observed in all the cases with highest values obtained with TiCN as a result of the combined effect of TiC and TiN. A change in the fracture mode from trans granular to intergranular was also observed.

An examination of the interparticle contact area during sintering of W-0.3 wt pct Co

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mitlin, D.; German, R.M.

1998-01-01

As a powder compact sinters, its microstructure evolves. One way to quantify the scale of the microstructure is to consider the interparticle contact area. This study examines two known models for calculating the interparticle contact area: the classic two-sphere model and the Voronoi cell model. Both models have particular assumptions about the microstructure that make them not applicable for treating densification to near full density with concurrent grain growth. The classic two-sphere model assumes a regular packing of particles and a perfectly spherical particle geometry and neglects an increasing particle coordination number with sintering. The Voronoi cell model assumes that the scale of the microstructure remains constant; i.e., as long as the compact is densifying, grain growth does not occur. The authors propose a modified Voronoi cell that accounts for an increasing grain size, making it applicable to a general case where grain growth occurs during sintering. The three models are compared to the interparticle contact area data, obtained by stereology techniques, for W-0.3 wt pct Co sintered from green state to near full density. The original Voronoi cell model fits the data only at low temperatures, before the onset of grain growth. Below approximately 90 pct relative density, the two-sphere model with an assumed coordination number of six (coordination number in a green compact) and the modified Voronoi cell model provide a good fit to the data. At higher densities, both models overestimate the interparticle contact area

Nd-Fe-B sintered magnets fabrication by using atomized powders

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Goto, R; Sugimoto, S; Matsuura, M; Tezuka, N; Une, Y; Sagawa, M

2011-01-01

Nd-Fe-B sintered magnets are required to achieve high coercivity for improvement of their thermal stability. Dy is added to increase coercivity, however, this element decrease magnetization and energy products. Therefore, Dy-lean Nd-Fe-B sintered magnets with high coercivity are strongly demanded. To increase coercivity, it is necessary that microstructure of sintered magnets is consisted of both fine main phase particles and homogeneously distributed Nd-rich phases around the main phase. To meet those requirements, Nd-Fe-B atomized powders were applied to the fabrication process of sintered magnets. Comparing with the case of using strip casting (SC) alloys, jet-milled powders from atomized powders show homogeneous distribution of Nd-rich phase. After optimized thermal treatment, coercivities of sintered magnets from atomized powders and SC alloys reach 1050 kA·m-1 and 1220 kA·m-1, respectively. This difference in coercivity was due to initial oxygen concentration of starting materials. Consequently, Nd-rich phases became oxides with high melting points, and did not melt and spread during sintering and annealing.

Effect of Power Characteristics on the Densification of Sintered Alumina

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Al-Sarraj, Z.S.A.; Noor, S.S.

2011-01-01

The effect of particle size distribution, soaking time and sintering temperatures on the densification behaviors of α-Al 2 O 3 was investigated. Two different average particle sizes of 36 and 45μ were examined as a variable to analyze the difference in density, radial and axial shrinkage, densification, and microstructure developments. Conventional powder technology route was used to prepare disc-shaped green pellets sintered at 1200-1600 0 C for different periods. Density measurements for both green and sintered compacts allow for the refinement of processing parameters to obtain dense sintered bodies. Compacts with particle size of 36 μm were noticed to attain higher relative densities as compared with those of 45μm. Densification parameter (ΔP) calculations clearly reveals the presence of definite temperatures and times in which limited densification retardation occurred, which permits the suggesting of suitable sintering schemes for this material. Scanning electron micrographs analysis revealed a pore structure assist the observed behaviours for the different schemes. (author)

Study of high-coercivity sintered NdFeB magnets

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bai, G.; Gao, R.W.; Sun, Y.; Han, G.B.; Wang, B.

2007-01-01

Magnetic powders for sintered NdFeB magnets have been prepared by using an advanced processing method including strip casting, hydrogen decrepitation, jet milling and rubber isotropic press. The effects of Dy, Ga and Co addition on the microstructure and magnetic properties of sintered magnets have been investigated. By adopting a suitable component ratio and adjusting proper technological parameters, we have prepared high-coercivity sintered NdFeB magnets with hard magnetic properties of j H c =25.6 kOe, B r =13.2 kG and (BH) max =39.9 MGOe. The temperature coefficient of coercivity of the magnets (between 20 and 150 deg. C) is -0.53% deg. C. The magnetic properties at high temperature satisfy the needs of permanent magnet motors

The evaluation of microstructure and mechanical properties of sintered sub-micron WC-Co powders

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nor Izan Izura; Mohd Asri Selamat; Noraizham Mohamad Diah; Talib Ria Jaafar

2007-01-01

A cemented tungsten carbide (WC-Co) is widely used for a variety of machining, cutting, drilling and other applications. The properties of this tungsten heavy alloy are sensitive to processing and degraded by residual porosity. The sequence of high end powder metallurgy process include mixing, compacting and followed by multi-atmosphere sintering of green compact were analyzed. The sub micron (<1.0 μm) and less than 10.0 μm of WC powders are sintered with a metal binder 6% Co to provide pore-free part. The powder compacts were sintered at temperatures cycle in the range of 1200 degree Celsius-1550 degree Celsius in nitrogen-based sintering atmosphere. To date, however there have been few reported studies in the literature that the best sintering was carried out via liquid phase sintering in vacuum at approximately 1500 degree Celsius. from this study we found that in order to attain high mechanical properties, a fine grain size of powder is necessary. Therefore, the attention of this work is to develop and produce wear resistant component with better properties or comparable to the commercial ones. (author)

Processing of a novel nano-structured ferritic steel via spark plasma sintering and investigation of its mechanical and microstructural characteristics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Pasebani, Somayeh; Charit, Indrajit; Wu, Yaqiao; Burns, Jatuporn; Allahar, Kerry N.; Butt, Darryl P.; Cole, James I.

2015-01-01

Nano-structured ferritic steels (NFSs) with 12-14 wt% Cr have attracted widespread interest for potential high temperature structural and fuel cladding applications in advanced nuclear reactors. They have excellent high temperature mechanical properties and high resistance to radiation-induced damage. The properties of the NFSs depend on the composition that mainly consists of Cr, Ti, W or Mo, and Y 2 O 3 as alloying constituents. In this study, a novel nano-structured ferritic steel (Fe-14Cr-1Ti-0.3Mo-0.5La 2 O 3 , wt%) termed as 14LMT was developed via high energy ball milling and spark plasma sintering. Vickers microhardness values were measured. Microstructural studies of the developed NFSs were performed by EBSD and TEM, which revealed a bimodal grain size distribution. A significant number density of nano-precipitates was observed in the microstructure. The diameter of the precipitates varied between 2-70 nm and the morphology from the spherical to faceted shape. The Cr-La-Ti-O-enriched nano-clusters were identified by APT studies. (authors)

Deformation behavior of sintered nanocrystalline silver layers

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zabihzadeh, S.; Van Petegem, S.; Duarte, L.I.; Mokso, R.; Cervellino, A.; Van Swygenhoven, H.

2015-01-01

The microstructure of porous silver layers produced under different low temperature pressure-assisted sintering conditions is characterized and linked with the mechanical behavior studied in situ during X-ray diffraction. Peak profile analysis reveals important strain recovery and hardening mechanism during cyclic deformation. The competition between both mechanisms is discussed in terms of porosity and grain size

Assessment of polyphase sintered iron-cobalt-iron boride cermets

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Nowacki, J.; Pieczonka, T.

2004-01-01

Sintering of iron, cobalt and boron powders has been analysed. As a result iron-iron boride, Fe-Fe 2 B and iron/cobalt boride with a slight admixture of molybdenum, Fe - Co - (FeMoCo) 2 B cermets have been produced. Iron was introduced to the mixture as the Astalloy Mo Hoeganaes grade powder. Elemental amorphous boron powder was used, and formation of borides occurred both during heating and isothermal sintering periods causing dimensional changes of the sintered body. Dilatometry was chosen to control basic phenomena taking place during multiphase sintering of investigated systems. The microstructure and phase constituents of sintered compacts were controlled as well. The cermets produced were substituted to: metallographic tests, X-ray analysis, measurements of hardness and of microhardness, and of wear in the process of sliding dry friction. Cermets are made up of two phases; hard grains of iron - cobalt boride, (FeCo) 2 B (1800 HV) constituting the reinforcement and a relatively soft and plastic eutectic mixture Fe 2 B - Co (400-500 HV) constituting the matrix. (author)

Direct Metal Laser Sintering of Ti6Al4V for Biomedical Applications: Microstructure, Corrosion Properties, and Mechanical Treatment of Implants

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Janette Brezinová

2016-07-01

Full Text Available Ti6Al4V samples have been prepared by Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS with varied laser power. Some of the samples were stress-relief annealed. The microstructure of materials was investigated using a light microscopy. Columnar grains of martensite dominate in as-made microstructure. Stress-relief annealing led to the white acicular phase growth in the structure with a fishbone arrangement on the boundary of some original martensitic needles. Mechanical properties of materials were characterized through hardness measurement in two directions relating to the sample building direction. It was found that the hardness of materials increased with a laser power and values varied from 370 to 415 HV 0.3/30. After stress-relief annealing, the structure of materials being homogenized, pattern spacing dissolved and the hardness in both directions became stabilized at values of 350–370 HV 0.3/30. The laser power affects the corrosion rate of the material. The lowest corrosion rate was recorded at the maximum laser power (190 W. Heat treatment does not affect the corrosion rate remarkably, however it leads to stabilization of corrosion potential of materials Ecorr. The surface of the samples was modified by an abrasive blasting using spherical (zirblast and sharp-edged (white corundum blasting abrasives and three levels of air pressure. The abrasive blasting of sintered materials led to a decrease of the surface roughness of materials with air pressure increasing. Blasting with zirblast led to a more significant decrease of roughness parameters compared with surfaces blasted with sharp-edged white aluminum. Different shapes of abrasives caused characteristic surface morphology.

Effect of Alloying Type and Lean Sintering Atmosphere on the Performance of PM Components

Science.gov (United States)

Sundaram, M. Vattur; Shvab, R.; Millot, S.; Hryha, E.; Nyborg, L.

2017-12-01

In order to be cost effective and to meet increasing performance demands, powder metallurgy steel components require continuous improvement in terms of materials and process development. This study demonstrates the feasibility of manufacturing structural components using two different alloys systems, i.e. lean Cr-prealloyed and diffusion bonded water atomised powders with different processing conditions. The components were sintered at two different temperatures, i.e. 1120 and 1250 °C for 30 minutes in three different atmospheres: vacuum, N2- 10%H2 atmosphere as well as lean N2-5%H2-0.5%CO-(0.1-0.4)%CH4 sintering atmosphere. Components after sintering were further processed by either low pressure carburizing, sinterhardening or case hardening. All trials were performed in the industrial furnaces to simulate the actual production of the components. Microstructure, fractography, apparent and micro hardness analyses were performed close to the surface and in the middle of the sample to characterize the degree of sintering (temperature and atmosphere) and the effect of heat treatment. In all cases, components possess mostly martensitic microstructure with a few bainitic regions. The fracture surface shows well developed sinter necks. Inter- and trans-granular ductile and cleavage fracture modes are dominant and their fraction is determined by the alloy and processing route.

Structural and magnetic Ni-Zn ferrite synthesized by combustion reaction and sintered in a conventional oven; Caracterizacao estrutural e magnetica de ferrita Ni-Zn sintetizadas por reacao de combustao e sinterizadas em forno convencional

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Vieira, D.A.; Diniz, V.C.S.; Costa, A.C.F.M., E-mail: deboralbq@hotmail.com [Universidade Federal de Campina Grande (UFCG), Campina Grande, PB (Brazil). Departamento de Engenharia de Materiais; Kiminami, R.H.G.A. [Universidade Federal de Sao Carlos (UFSCar), SP (Brazil). Departamento de Engenharia de Materiais; Cornejo, D.R. [Universidade de Sao Paulo (USP), Sao Paulo, SP (Brazil). Instituto de Fisica. Departamento de Fisica dos Materiais e Mecanica

2011-07-01

The Ni-Zn ferrite due to their electrical and magnetic properties allows use in various technological applications. These properties can be controlled through appropriate choice of chemical composition, structural characteristics and morphology of the powders used and the techniques used for sintering. Thus, this study aims to evaluate the sintering in a conventional oven at a temperature of 1200 deg C/2h samples of Ni-Zn ferrite synthesized by microwave energy. The samples were characterized by density measurement, XRD, SEM and magnetic measurements. The results indicate the phase formation of Ni-Zn ferrite crystalline phase with crystallite size of 80 nm. The sample was heterogeneous microstructure with grain size of about 1 μm high intergranular porosity. The sample showed the saturation magnetization of 7.57 emu/g, coercive field and remanent magnetization close to zero, thus indicating a behavior characteristic of superparamagnetic materials. (author)

Influence of Ti addition and sintering method on microstructure and mechanical behavior of a medium-entropy Al0.6CoNiFe alloy

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Fu, Zhiqiang; Chen, Weiping; Chen, Zhen; Wen, Haiming; Lavernia, Enrique J.

2014-01-01

The influence of Ti addition and sintering method on the microstructure and mechanical behavior of a medium-entropy alloy, Al 0.6 CoNiFe alloy, was studied in detail. Alloying behavior, microstructure, phase evolution and mechanical properties of Al 0.6 CoNiFe and Ti 0.4 Al 0.6 CoNiFe alloys were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), as well as by mechanical testing. During the mechanical alloying (MA) process, a supersaturated solid solution consisting of both BCC and FCC phases was formed in the Al 0.6 CoNiFe alloy. With Ti addition, the Ti 0.4 Al 0.6 CoNiFe alloy exhibited a supersaturated solid solution with a single FCC phase. Following hot pressing (HP), the HP sintered (HP’ed) Al 0.6 CoNiFe bulk alloy was composed of a major BCC phase and a minor FCC phase. The HP’ed Ti 0.4 Al 0.6 CoNiFe alloy exhibited a FCC phase, two BCC phases and a trace unidentified phase. Nanoscale twins were present in the HP’ed Ti 0.4 Al 0.6 CoNiFe alloy, where deformation twins were observed in the FCC phase. Our results suggest that the addition of Ti facilitated the formation of nanoscale twins. The compressive strength and Vickers hardness of HP’ed Ti 0.4 Al 0.6 CoNiFe alloy were slightly lower than the corresponding values of the HP’ed Al 0.6 CoNiFe alloy. In contrast with HP’ed Al 0.6 CoNiFe alloy, spark plasma sintered (SPS’ed) Al 0.6 CoNiFe alloy exhibited a major FCC phase and a minor BCC phase. Moreover, the SPS’ed Al 0.6 CoNiFe alloy exhibited a lower compressive strength and Vickers hardness, but singificantly higher plasticity, as compared to those of the HP’ed counterpart material

Low temperature sintering of fluorapatite glass-ceramics

Science.gov (United States)

Denry, Isabelle; Holloway, Julie A.

2014-01-01

Fluorapatite glass-ceramics have been shown to be excellent candidates as scaffold materials for bone grafts, however, scaffold production by sintering is hindered by concurrent crystallization of the glass. Our goal was to investigate the effect of Ca/Al ratio on the sintering behavior of Nb-doped fluorapatite-based glasses in the SiO2-Al2O3-P2O5-MgO-Na2O-K2O-CaO-CaF2 system. Glass compositions with Ca/Al ratio of 1 (A), 2 (B), 4 (C) and 19 (D) were prepared by twice melting at 1525°C for 3h. Glasses were either cast as cylindrical ingots or ground into powders. Disc-shaped specimens were prepared by either sectioning from the ingots or powder-compacting in a mold, followed by heat treatment at temperatures ranging between 700 and 1050°C for 1h. The density was measured on both sintered specimens and heat treated discs as controls. The degree of sintering was determined from these measurements. XRD showed that fluorapatite crystallized in all glass-ceramics. A high degree of sintering was achieved at 775°C for glass-ceramic D (98.99±0.04%), and 900°C for glass-ceramic C (91.31±0.10). Glass-ceramics A or B were only partially sintered at 1000°C (63.6±0.8% and 74.1±1.5%, respectively). SEM revealed a unique microstructure of micron-sized spherulitic fluorapatite crystals in glass-ceramics C and D. Increasing the Ca/Al ratio promoted low temperature sintering of fluorapatite glass-ceramics, which are traditionally difficult to sinter. PMID:24252652

Microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti–22Al–25Nb alloy fabricated by vacuum hot pressing sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Jia, Jianbo, E-mail: jiajianbohit@163.com [National Key Laboratory for Precision Hot Processing of Metals, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001 (China); School of Mechanical Engineering, Beihua University, Jilin 132021 (China); Zhang, Kaifeng; Jiang, Shaosong [National Key Laboratory for Precision Hot Processing of Metals, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001 (China)

2014-10-20

A study has been undertaken to verify the feasibility of using a powder metallurgy (P/M) approach to fabricate Ti–22Al–25Nb alloys. Pre-alloyed powders with a nominal composition of Ti–22Al–25Nb (at%) obtained by argon atomization were sieved to the spherical size less than 180 μm and used for the fabrication of P/M Ti–22Al–25Nb alloys via hot pressing in vacuum. Vacuum hot pressing sintering was carried out in a temperature range of 950–1200 °C with a pressure of 35 MPa for 1 h followed by furnace cooling. Microstructure and phase composition examinations of the as-atomized powders and hot pressed (HP'ed) samples were conducted by applying optical microscopy, back-scatter electron imaging and X-ray diffraction analysis. Tensile tests were studied at room temperature and 650 °C, respectively. The results showed that all HP'ed samples were composed of coarse equiaxed B2 grains, fine lamellar O phase inside the B2 grains, and some α{sub 2} along B2 grain boundaries. The elongations of HP'ed samples were less than 3.95%, indicating the bad ductility at room temperature. However, the elongations were improved as the tensile temperature increased to 650 °C. The sample sintered at 1050 °C exhibited a better ductility with the elongation of 7.97% at 650 °C than that of other samples.

Study of the magnetic microstructure of high-coercivity sintered SmCo5 permanent magnets with the conventional Bitter pattern technique and the colloid-SEM method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Szmaja, Witold

2007-01-01

The magnetic microstructure of high-coercivity sintered SmCo 5 permanent magnets was studied with the conventional Bitter pattern technique, and also for the first time with the colloid-scanning electron microscopy (colloid-SEM) method. Both techniques were supported by digital image acquisition, enhancement and analysis. Thanks to this, it was possible to obtain high-contrast and clear images of the magnetic microstructure and to analyze them in detail, and consequently also to achieve improvements over earlier results. In the thermally demagnetized state the grains were composed of magnetic domains. On the surface perpendicular to the alignment axis, the main domains forming a maze pattern and surface reverse spikes were observed. Investigations on the surface parallel to the alignment axis, especially by the colloid-SEM technique, provided a detailed insight into the orientation of grains. The alignment of grains was good, but certainly not perfect; there were also strongly misaligned grains, although generally very rare. In most cases the domain structures within grains were independent of their neighbors, but in some cases (not so rare) the domain walls were observed to continue through the grain boundaries, indicating significant magnetostatic interaction between neighboring grains. Studies of the behavior of the magnetic microstructure under the influence of an external magnetic field, performed for the first time on the surface parallel to the alignment axis (with the conventional Bitter pattern method), showed that the domain walls move easily within the grains and that the magnetization reversal mechanism is mainly related to the nucleation and growth of reverse domains, i.e. that sintered SmCo 5 magnets are nucleation-dominated systems. Groupwise magnetization reversal of adjacent magnetically coupled grains was observed, an unfavorable effect for high-coercivity magnets. Images obtained by the colloid-SEM technique and the conventional Bitter pattern

Influence of Mg O and B2O3 addition on reaction sintering, properties and microstructure of Aluminum titanate

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ajami, R.; Sarpoolaki, H.; Akbari, G. H.

2007-01-01

The effect of Mg O and B 2 O 3 on the formation, physical properties, phase analysis and microstructure of aluminum titanate was investigated. Density results showed the sample containing of 1 wt percent B 2 O 3 and 2 wt percent Mg O leads to the highest density while the lowest density was seen in samples containing 1 wt percent B 2 O 3 compared to pure aluminum titanate. Regarding the phase analysis of samples, Mg O was found most effective additive on reaction sintering of aluminum titanate through the intermediate phases. Furthermore at the temperatures above 1350 d eg C , B 2 O 3 promote the formation reaction of aluminum titanate. Microstructural analysis showed the samples containing Mg O are fine grain and homogeneous. Thermal expansion coefficient of samples with additives is greater than pure aluminum titanate. Pure aluminum titanate samples and one containing B 2 O 3 additive decompose to Al 2 O 3 and TiO 2 after 5 hours heat treatment at 1150 d eg C while the samples containing 2 wt percent Mg O was stable even after 25 hours

[The effect of technological parameters of wide-band laser cladding on microstructure and sinterability of gradient bioceramics composite coating].

Science.gov (United States)

Liu, Qibin; Zhu, Weidong; Zou, Longjiang; Zheng, Min; Dong, Chuang

2005-12-01

The gradient bioceramics coating was prepared on the surface of Ti-6Al-4V alloy by using wide-band laser cladding. And the effect of technological parameters of wide-band laser cladding on microstructure and sinterability of gradient bioceramics composite coating was studied. The experimental results indicated that in the circumstances of size of laser doze D and scanning velocity V being fixed, with the increasement of power P, the density of microstructure in bioceramics coating gradually degraded; with the increasement of power P, the pore rate of bioceramics gradually became high. While P = 2.3 KW, the bioceramics coating with dense structure and lower pore rate (5.11%) was obtained; while P = 2.9 KW, the bioceramics coating with disappointing density was formed and its pore rate was up to 21.32%. The microhardness of bioceramics coating demonstrated that while P = 2.3 KW, the largest value of microhardness of bioceramics coating was 1100 HV. Under the condition of our research work, the optimum technological parameters for preparing gradient bioceramics coating by wide-band laser cladding are: P = 2.3 KW, V = 145 mm/min, D = 16 mm x 2 mm.

Novel approaches for the in situ study of the sintering of nuclear oxide fuel materials and their surrogates

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Clavier, Nicolas; Nkou Bouala, Galy Ingrid; Dacheux, Nicolas; Podor, Renaud [Montpellier Univ., Bagnols sur Ceze (France). ICSM - UMR 5257 CEA/CNRS/ENSCM; Lechelle, Jacques [CEA, DNE, DEC, SESC, LLCC, St-Paul lez Durance (France); Martinez, Julien [CEA, DEN, DTEC, SECA, LFC, Bagnols sur Ceze (France)

2017-07-01

Sintering is one of the key-points of the processing of ceramic materials. It is then of primary interest for the nuclear fuel cycle, in which it constitutes an important step in the fabrication of either UO{sub 2} or (U,Pu)O{sub 2} pellets used in current PWR reactors. The sintering of actinides oxides not only drives the final density and microstructure of the fuels, but also several characteristics that can impact significantly their behavior in the reactor. Dedicated tools are then needed to monitor the microstructure of such materials and forecast their evolution. In this frame, this paper presents the new potentialities offered by the use of environmental scanning electron microscope at high temperature (HT-ESEM) for the study of nuclear ceramics sintering. First, the results obtained from bulk pellets are detailed, either regarding original fundamental data at the grain level (such as grain boundaries and pores motion), or design of dedicated microstructures through the assessment of grain growth kinetics. Acquisition of sintering maps thanks to the combination of HT-ESEM observations and classical dilatometric measurements are also addressed. In a second part, observations undertaken at the 2-grain scale to monitor the first stage of sintering, dedicated to neck elaboration, are presented, and compared to the results currently provided by numerical models.

Direct laser sintered WC-10Co/Cu nanocomposites

Science.gov (United States)

Gu, Dongdong; Shen, Yifu

2008-04-01

In the present work, the direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) process was used to prepare the WC-Co/Cu nanocomposites in bulk form. The WC reinforcing nanoparticles were added in the form of WC-10 wt.% Co composite powder. The microstructural features and mechanical properties of the laser-sintered sample were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscope (AFM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscope (EDX), and nanoindentation tester. It showed that the original nanometric nature of the WC reinforcing particulates was well retained without appreciable grain growth after laser processing. A homogeneous distribution of the WC reinforcing nanoparticles with a coherent particulate/matrix interfacial bonding was obtained in the laser-sintered structure. The 94.3% dense nanocomposites have a dynamic nanohardness of 3.47 GPa and a reduced elastic modulus of 613.42 GPa.

Direct laser sintered WC-10Co/Cu nanocomposites

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Gu Dongdong [College of Materials Science and Technology, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, 29 Yudao Street, Nanjing 210016 (China)], E-mail: dongdonggu@nuaa.edu.cn; Shen Yifu [College of Materials Science and Technology, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics, 29 Yudao Street, Nanjing 210016 (China)

2008-04-30

In the present work, the direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) process was used to prepare the WC-Co/Cu nanocomposites in bulk form. The WC reinforcing nanoparticles were added in the form of WC-10 wt.% Co composite powder. The microstructural features and mechanical properties of the laser-sintered sample were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscope (AFM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscope (EDX), and nanoindentation tester. It showed that the original nanometric nature of the WC reinforcing particulates was well retained without appreciable grain growth after laser processing. A homogeneous distribution of the WC reinforcing nanoparticles with a coherent particulate/matrix interfacial bonding was obtained in the laser-sintered structure. The 94.3% dense nanocomposites have a dynamic nanohardness of 3.47 GPa and a reduced elastic modulus of 613.42 GPa.

Direct laser sintered WC-10Co/Cu nanocomposites

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Gu Dongdong; Shen Yifu

2008-01-01

In the present work, the direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) process was used to prepare the WC-Co/Cu nanocomposites in bulk form. The WC reinforcing nanoparticles were added in the form of WC-10 wt.% Co composite powder. The microstructural features and mechanical properties of the laser-sintered sample were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), atomic force microscope (AFM), scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscope (EDX), and nanoindentation tester. It showed that the original nanometric nature of the WC reinforcing particulates was well retained without appreciable grain growth after laser processing. A homogeneous distribution of the WC reinforcing nanoparticles with a coherent particulate/matrix interfacial bonding was obtained in the laser-sintered structure. The 94.3% dense nanocomposites have a dynamic nanohardness of 3.47 GPa and a reduced elastic modulus of 613.42 GPa

Experimental investigations on the synthesis of W–Cu nanocomposite through spark plasma sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Elsayed, Ayman, E-mail: aymanhamada@cmrdi.sci.eg [Central Metallurgical R& D Institute, Department of Powder Technology, P.O. Box 87, Helwan, Cairo 11421 (Egypt); Li, Wei [San Diego State University, College of Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92128-1326 (United States); El Kady, Omayma A. [Central Metallurgical R& D Institute, Department of Powder Technology, P.O. Box 87, Helwan, Cairo 11421 (Egypt); Daoush, Walid M. [Helwan University, Faculty of Industrial Education, Department of Production Technology, Cairo (Egypt); Olevsky, Eugene A.; German, Randall M. [San Diego State University, College of Engineering, Department of Mechanical Engineering, 5500 Campanile Drive, San Diego, CA 92128-1326 (United States)

2015-08-05

Highlights: • Tungsten–copper composites have been synthesized using SPS of nano powders. • Various preparation methods, namely mixing, milling and coating have been used. • Conventional compaction and sintering has also been used for comparison. • The composites by SPS have shown finer microstructure and better hardness. • Mixing has proven best preparation method with best physical/mechanical properties. - Abstract: Elemental powders of nanosized tungsten and chemically deposited nanosized copper were used for preparing tungsten/copper composites, which are used as electric contact components. A composite of 70 wt.%W/30 wt.%Cu (52 vol%W/48 vol%Cu) composition was prepared by three powder metallurgy techniques. Elemental mixing, mechanical milling and electroless Cu coating on tungsten particles were used for the synthesis. The obtained powder blends underwent consolidation by rapid hot pressing using the spark plasma sintering (SPS) route at 950 °C under vacuum and by conventional vacuum pressureless sintering for comparison. The elemental powders and the sintered composites were investigated by optical microscopy and SEM. Electrical conductivity, hardness, transverse rupture strength, and wear properties were measured. Results show that the synthesis of the composite by the investigated route yields good performance. Samples prepared by SPS have shown better mechanical properties than those prepared by compaction and sintering due to their fine microstructure.

Microstructural evolution and mechanical properties of Ti3SiC2-TiC composites

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Tian, WuBian; Sun, ZhengMing; Hashimoto, Hitoshi; Du, YuLei

2010-01-01

Ti 3 SiC 2 -TiC composites were fabricated by pulse discharge sintering technique using three different sets of powder mixtures, i.e. Ti/Si/TiC (TC30), Ti/Si/C/TiC (SI30) and Ti/Si/C (TSC30). Based on X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis and microstructural observations, starting powder reactants were found to have little effect on phase content but strong influence on the microstructure in terms of phase distribution. The phase distribution mainly relies on the heat released from reaction and the liquid phase content formed during sintering. The mechanical properties of the fabricated dense samples demonstrate that more homogeneous phase distribution, available by choosing the starting reactants of SI30, results in higher flexural strength, whereas the Vickers hardness is almost independent of the microstructure. The enhanced flexural strength in sample SI30 sintered at 1400 o C is mainly attributed to the homogeneous TiC distribution in the microstructure.

Sintering and electrical properties of strontium-doped lanthanum manganite

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Tarrago, Diego Pereira; Sousa, Vania Caldas de [Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (LABIOMAT/PPGEM/UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS (Brazil). Programa de Pos-Graduacao em Engenharia de Minas, Metalurgica e de Materiais. Lab. de Biomateriais], Email: dptarrago@gmail.com; Moreno Buriel, Berta; Chinarro Martini, Eva; Jurado Egea, Jose Ramon [Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas (ICV/CSIC), Madrid (Spain). Inst. de Ceramica y Vidrio; Malfatti, Celia de Fraga [Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (LAPEC/PPGEM/UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS (Brazil). Programa de Pos-Graduacao em Engenharia de Minas, Metalurgica e de Materiais. Lab. de Pesquisa em Corrosao

2010-07-01

Lanthanum strontium manganites (LSM) are potential materials for cathode applications in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) due to their good catalytic activity, chemical stability and compatibility with electrolyte materials in high temperatures. The sinterability of single phase La{sub 1-x}Sr{sub x}Mn{sub O3} (x=0.18) perovskite powders and the electrical properties of the resulting samples are analyzed in this study. Using a heating microscope, the powders were pressed and sintered at different pressures and temperatures, resulting in an open porosity of 33.36% when compacted at 125 MPa and sintered at 1200 degree C. Top and cross-section s canning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs revealed interconnected pores in the sintered body and, hence, a suitable microstructure for the application. The activation energy for conductance was 0.04 eV and the tested LSM bulk started to exhibit adequate electrical properties at about 500 degree C. (author)

Effect of sintering temperature on microstructure and performance of LSM-YSZ composite cathodes

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Juhl Jørgensen, M.; Primdahl, S.; Bagger, C.

2001-01-01

the sintering temperature to 1050 degreesC the increase in the polarisation resistance was counterbalanced by a decrease in the series resistance, The optimum sintering temperature with respect to the initial performance is assumed to be where good physical and electrical contact between LSM and YSZ is obtained...

Microstructural evolution during the synthesis of bulk components from nanocrystalline ceramic powder, part II: microstructure and properties

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Ajaal, T. T.; Metak, A. M.

2004-01-01

Part I of this review, published in 5 /4th of Al-Nawah magazine, was devoted to the synthetic techniques used in the production processes of a bulk components of nanocrystalline materials. In this part, the microstructural evolution and its effect on the materials properties will be detailed. Minimizing grain growth and maximizing densification during the sintering stage of the ultrafine particles as well as the homogeneous densification in pressureless sintering, grain growth and rapid rate pressureless sintering will be discussed. Ceramics are well known for their high strength at elevated temperatures, as well as the extreme brittleness that prevents their application in many critical components. However, researchers have found that brittleness can be overcome by reducing particle sizes to nanometer levels. These fine grain structures are believed to provide improved ductility the individual grains can slide over one another without causing cracks. In addition, nanophase ceramics are more easily formed than their conventional counterparts, and easier to machine without cracking or breaking. Shrinkage during sintering is also greatly reduced in nanophase ceramics, and they can be sintered at lower temperatures than conventional ceramics. As a result, nanophase ceramics have the potential to deliver an ideal combination of ductility and high-temperature strength, allowing increased efficiency in applications ranging from automobile engines to jet aircraft. This part of the review covers the microstructural evolution during the synthetic process of nanocrystalline ceramic materials and its effects on the materials properties.(author)

Study on the process of sintering matrix metallic Fe-Cu-25%Nb and Fe-Cu-25%Co during hot pressing

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Batista, A.C.; Oliveira, H.C.P.; Souza, M.H.; Assis, P.S.

2016-01-01

The sintering process promotes densification and the evolution of the microstructure of the material, with consequent significant increase in hardness and mechanical strength. However, few studies show the influence of pressure and temperature during sintering by hot pressing. In this sense, this work aims to evaluate the microstructural changes and properties with the variation of pressure and temperature and the type suffered by sintering metal powders during sintering by hot pressing. For this, two samples were studied by changing the sintering parameters: 25% Fe-50% Cu-25% Nb and 25% Fe-50% Cu-25% Co. Samples were analyzed by SEM / EDS in order to check the morphology and the presence of pores, as well as the interaction between the metallic constituents of each sample by the EDS analysis in line. They also determined the relative density, porosity and Vickers hardness (HV5). At the end of the study it was concluded that niobium alloy composite element by sintering activated suffered together with the liquid phase sintering. For cobalt alloys were observed by liquid phase sintering. The increase in the severity of the sintering conditions (temperature and pressure) led to an improvement in physical and mechanical properties of the alloys, which indicates that these parameters are directly related to the mechanisms of diffusion in the sintering process, improving the properties and diffusivity between elements. (author)

A new insight into high-strength Ti62Nb12.2Fe13.6Co6.4Al5.8 alloys with bimodal microstructure fabricated by semi-solid sintering.

Science.gov (United States)

Liu, L H; Yang, C; Kang, L M; Qu, S G; Li, X Q; Zhang, W W; Chen, W P; Li, Y Y; Li, P J; Zhang, L C

2016-03-31

It is well known that semi-solid forming could only obtain coarse-grained microstructure in a few alloy systems with a low melting point, such as aluminum and magnesium alloys. This work presents that semi-solid forming could also produce novel bimodal microstructure composed of nanostructured matrix and micro-sized (CoFe)Ti2 twins in a titanium alloy, Ti62Nb12.2Fe13.6Co6.4Al5.8. The semi-solid sintering induced by eutectic transformation to form a bimodal microstructure in Ti62Nb12.2Fe13.6Co6.4Al5.8 alloy is a fundamentally different approach from other known methods. The fabricated alloy exhibits high yield strength of 1790 MPa and plastic strain of 15.5%. The novel idea provides a new insight into obtaining nano-grain or bimodal microstructure in alloy systems with high melting point by semi-solid forming and into fabricating high-performance metallic alloys in structural applications.

Effect of sintering temperature on microstructure and transport properties of Li3xLa2/3-xTiO3 with different lithium contents

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Geng Hongxia; Lan Jinle; Mei Ao; Lin Yuanhua; Nan, C.W.

2011-01-01

Li 3x La 2/3-x TiO 3 (LLTO) powder with different lithium contents (nominal 3x = 0.03-0.75) was synthesized via a simple sol-gel route and then calcination of gel-derived precursor at 900 o C which was much below the calcination temperature required for synthesizing the LLTO powder via solid state reaction route. The LLTO powder of sub-micron sized particles, derived from such sol-gel method, showed almost no aggregation. Starting from the sol-gel-derived powder, the LLTO ceramics with different lithium contents were prepared at different sintering temperatures of 1250 and 1350 o C. It demonstrated that our sol-gel route is quite simple and convenient compared to the previous sol-gel method and requires lower temperature for the LLTO. Our results also illustrated that lithium content significantly affects the structure and ionic conductivity of the LLTO ceramics. The dependence of the ionic conductivity on the lithium content, lattice structure, microstructure and sintering temperature was investigated systematically.

Laser Sintering Technology and Balling Phenomenon.

Science.gov (United States)

Oyar, Perihan

2018-02-01

The aim of this review was to evaluate the balling phenomenon which occurs typically in Selective Laser Sintering (SLS). The balling phenomenon is a typical SLS defect, and observed in laser sintered powder, significantly reduces the quality of SLS, and hinders the further development of SLS Technology. Electronic database searches were performed using Google Scholar. The keywords "laser sintering, selective laser sintering, direct metal laser melting, and balling phenomenon" were searched in title/abstract of publications, limited to December 31, 2016. The inclusion criteria were SLS, balling phenomenon, some alloys (such as Cr-Co, iron, stainless steel, and Cu-based alloys) mechanical properties, microstructure and bond strength between metal-ceramic crown, laboratory studies, full text, and in English language. A total of 100 articles were found the initial search and yielded a total of 50 studies, 30 of which did not fulfill the inclusion criteria and were therefore excluded. In addition, 20 studies were found by screening the reference list of all included publications. Finally, 40 studies were selected for this review. The method in question is regulated by powder material characteristics and the conditions of laser processing. The procedure of formation, affecting factors, and the mechanism of the balling effect are very complex.

Study of ceramics sintering under high pressures

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Kunrath Neto, A.O.

1990-01-01

A systematic study was made on high pressure sintering of ceramics in order to obtain materials with controlled microstructure, which are not accessible by conventional methods. Some aspects with particular interest were: to achieve very low porosity, with fine grains; to produce dispersed metastable and denser phases which can act as toughening agents; the study of new possibilities for toughening enhancement. (author)

Study of high-coercivity sintered NdFeB magnets

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Bai, G. [School of Physics and Microelectronics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100 (China); Department of Mathematics and Physics, Xi' an Institute of Technology, Xi' an, 710032 (China); Gao, R.W. [School of Physics and Microelectronics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100 (China)]. E-mail: gaorwbox@sdu.edu.cn; Sun, Y. [School of Physics and Microelectronics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100 (China); Han, G.B. [School of Physics and Microelectronics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100 (China); Wang, B. [School of Physics and Microelectronics, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100 (China); Baotou Rare Earth Research Institute, Batou 014030 (China)

2007-01-15

Magnetic powders for sintered NdFeB magnets have been prepared by using an advanced processing method including strip casting, hydrogen decrepitation, jet milling and rubber isotropic press. The effects of Dy, Ga and Co addition on the microstructure and magnetic properties of sintered magnets have been investigated. By adopting a suitable component ratio and adjusting proper technological parameters, we have prepared high-coercivity sintered NdFeB magnets with hard magnetic properties of {sub j} H {sub c}=25.6 kOe, B {sub r}=13.2 kG and (BH){sub max}=39.9 MGOe. The temperature coefficient of coercivity of the magnets (between 20 and 150 deg. C) is -0.53% deg. C. The magnetic properties at high temperature satisfy the needs of permanent magnet motors.

Lanthana-bearing nanostructured ferritic steels via spark plasma sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Pasebani, Somayeh [Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844 (United States); Center for Advanced Energy Studies, Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States); Charit, Indrajit, E-mail: icharit@uidaho.edu [Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844 (United States); Center for Advanced Energy Studies, Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States); Wu, Yaqiao; Burns, Jatuporn; Allahar, Kerry N.; Butt, Darryl P. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Boise State University, Boise, ID 83725 (United States); Center for Advanced Energy Studies, Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States); Cole, James I. [Idaho National Laboratory, Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States); Center for Advanced Energy Studies, Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States); Alsagabi, Sultan F. [Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Idaho, Moscow, ID 83844 (United States); Center for Advanced Energy Studies, Idaho Falls, ID 83401 (United States)

2016-03-15

A lanthana-containing nanostructured ferritic steel (NFS) was processed via mechanical alloying (MA) of Fe-14Cr-1Ti-0.3Mo-0.5La{sub 2}O{sub 3} (wt.%) and consolidated via spark plasma sintering (SPS). In order to study the consolidation behavior via SPS, sintering temperature and dwell time were correlated with microstructure, density, microhardness and shear yield strength of the sintered specimens. A bimodal grain size distribution including both micron-sized and nano-sized grains was observed in the microstructure of specimens sintered at 850, 950 and1050 °C for 45 min. Significant densification occurred at temperatures greater than 950 °C with a relative density higher than 98%. A variety of nanoparticles, some enriched in Fe and Cr oxides and copious nanoparticles smaller than 10 nm with faceted morphology and enriched in La and Ti oxides were observed. After SPS at 950 °C, the number density of Cr–Ti–La–O-enriched nanoclusters with an average radius of 1.5 nm was estimated to be 1.2 × 10{sup 24} m{sup −3}. The La + Ti:O ratio was close to 1 after SPS at 950 and 1050 °C; however, the number density of nanoclusters decreased at 1050 °C. With SPS above 950 °C, the density improved but the microhardness and shear yield strength decreased due to partial coarsening of the grains and nanoparticles.

Preparation and Microstructure of Porous ZrB2 Ceramics Using Reactive Spark Plasma Sintering Method

Institute of Scientific and Technical Information of China (English)

YUAN Huiping; LI Junguo; SHEN Qiang; ZHANG Lianmeng

2015-01-01

Zirconium oxide (ZrO2) and boron carbide (B4C) were added to ZrB2 raw powders to prepare ZrB2 porous ceramics by reactive spark plasma sintering (RSPS). The reactions between ZrO2 and B4C which produce ZrB2 and gas (such as CO and B2O3) result in pore formation. X-Ray Diffraction results indicated that the products phase was ZrB2 and the reaction was completed after the RSPS process. The porosity could be controlled by changing the ratio of synthesized ZrB2 to raw ZrB2 powders. The porosity of porous ceramics with 20 wt% and 40 wt% synthsized ZrB2 are 0.185 and 0.222, respectivly. And dense ZrB2-SiC ceramic with a porosity of 0.057 was prepared under the same conditions for comparison. The pores were homogeneously distributed within the microstructure of the porous ceramics. The results indicate a promising method for preparing porous ZrB2-based ceramics.

Spark Plasma Sintering of a Gas Atomized Al7075 Alloy: Microstructure and Properties

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Orsolya Molnárová

2016-12-01

Full Text Available The powder of an Al7075 alloy was prepared by gas atomization. A combination of cellular, columnar, and equiaxed dendritic-like morphology was observed in individual powder particles with continuous layers of intermetallic phases along boundaries. The cells are separated predominantly by high-angle boundaries, the areas with dendritic-like morphology usually have a similar crystallographic orientation. Spark plasma sintering resulted in a fully dense material with a microstructure similar to that of the powder material. The continuous layers of intermetallic phases are replaced by individual particles located along internal boundaries, coarse particles are formed at the surface of original powder particles. Microhardness measurements revealed both artificial and natural ageing behavior similar to that observed in ingot metallurgy material. The minimum microhardness of 81 HV, observed in the sample annealed at 300 °C, reflects the presence of coarse particles. The peak microhardness of 160 HV was observed in the sample annealed at 500 °C and then aged at room temperature. Compression tests confirmed high strength combined with sufficient plasticity. Annealing even at 500 °C does not significantly influence the distribution of grain sizes—about 45% of the area is occupied by grains with the size below 10 µm.

Sinter ageing of equiatomic Al20Co20Cu20Zn20Ni20 high entropy alloy via mechanical alloying

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Mohanty, Sutanuka; Gurao, N.P.; Biswas, Krishanu

2014-01-01

The present investigation reports for the first time, the sinter ageing of equiatomic Al 20 Co 20 Cu 20 Ni 20 Zn 20 high entropy alloy (HEA), being synthesized by high energy ball milling of elemental powder blend under protective argon atmosphere, followed by consolidation of the milled powder by spark plasma sintering at different temperatures and applied pressure of 50 MPa. The detailed X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies indicate the presence of single phase, FCC β supersaturated solid solution in the ball milled powder. However, the sintering of the as-milled powder reveals the formation of α with ordered FCC (L1 2 ) structure within the grains of FCC γ. The microstructural analysis using TEM shows the precipitation of near cuboidal shaped α phase within the grains of γ. The size and shape of the precipitates depend on the sintering temperature. Hardness measurement of the sintered alloys suggests age hardening of the as-milled powder during sintering. The sinter age hardening of HEA is attributed to the fine scale precipitation of α phase. Detailed variation of the hardness and microstructural evolution are reported here to elucidate this novel finding

Two-step sintering of ultrafine-grained barium cerate proton conducting ceramics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Wang, Siwei; Zhang, Lei; Zhang, Lingling; Brinkman, Kyle; Chen, Fanglin

2013-01-01

Ultra-fine grained dense BaZr 0.1 Ce 0.7 Y 0.1 Yb 0.1 O 3−δ (BZCYYb) ceramics have been successfully prepared via a two-step sintering method. Co-precipitation method has been adopted to prepare nano-sized BZCYYb precursors with an average particle size of 30 nm. By controlling the sintering profile, an average grain size of 184 nm was obtained for dense BZCYYb ceramics via the two-step sintering method, compared to 445 nm for the conventional sintered samples. The two-step sintered BZCYYb samples showed less impurity and an enhanced electrical conductivity compared with the conventional sintered ones. Further, the two-step sintering method was applied to fabricate anode supported solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) using BZCYYb as the electrolyte, resulting in dense ultrafine-grained electrolyte membranes and porous anode substrates with fine particles. Due to the reduced ohmic as well as polarization resistances, the maximum power output of the cells fabricated from the two-step sintering method reached 349 mW m −2 at 700 °C, significantly improved from 172 mW cm −2 for the conventional sintered cells, suggesting that two-step sintering method is very promising for optimizing the microstructure and thus enhancing the electrochemical performances for barium cerate based proton-conducting SOFCs.

Fabrication of metallic microstructures by micromolding nanoparticles

Science.gov (United States)

Morales, Alfredo M.; Winter, Michael R.; Domeier, Linda A.; Allan, Shawn M.; Skala, Dawn M.

2002-01-01

A method is provided for fabricating metallic microstructures, i.e., microcomponents of micron or submicron dimensions. A molding composition is prepared containing an optional binder and nanometer size (1 to 1000 nm in diameter) metallic particles. A mold, such as a lithographically patterned mold, preferably a LIGA or a negative photoresist mold, is filled with the molding composition and compressed. The resulting microstructures are then removed from the mold and the resulting metallic microstructures so provided are then sintered.

The effects of surface finish and grain size on the strength of sintered silicon carbide

Science.gov (United States)

You, Y. H.; Kim, Y. W.; Lee, J. G.; Kim, C. H.

1985-01-01

The effects of surface treatment and microstructure, especially abnormal grain growth, on the strength of sintered SiC were studied. The surfaces of sintered SiC were treated with 400, 800 and 1200 grit diamond wheels. Grain growth was induced by increasing the sintering times at 2050 C. The beta to alpha transformation occurred during the sintering of beta-phase starting materials and was often accompanied by abnormal grain growth. The overall strength distributions were established using Weibull statistics. The strength of the sintered SiC is limited by extrinsic surface flaws in normal-sintered specimens. The finer the surface finish and grain size, the higher the strength. But the strength of abnormal sintering specimens is limited by the abnormally grown large tabular grains. The Weibull modulus increases with decreasing grain size and decreasing grit size for grinding.

Highly transparent Tb3Al5O12 magneto-optical ceramics sintered from co-precipitated powders with sintering aids

Science.gov (United States)

Dai, Jiawei; Pan, Yubai; Xie, Tengfei; Kou, Huamin; Li, Jiang

2018-04-01

Highly transparent terbium aluminum garnet (Tb3Al5O12, TAG) magneto-optical ceramics were fabricated from co-precipitated nanopowders with tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) as sintering aid by vacuum sintering combined with hot isostatic pressing (HIP) post-treatment. The ball milled TAG powder shows better dispersity than the as-synthesized powder, and its average particle size is about 80 nm. For the ceramic sample pre-sintered at 1720 °C for 20 h with HIP post-treated at 1700 °C for 3 h, the in-line transmittance exceeds 76% in the region of 400-1580nm (except the absorption band), reaching a maximum value of 81.8% at the wavelength of 1390 nm. The microstructure of the TAG ceramic is homogeneous and its average grain size is approximately 19.7 μm. The Verdet constant of the sample is calculated to be -182.7 rad·T-1·m-1 at room temperature.

Phase evolution and microwave dielectric properties of A5M5O17-type ceramics

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Ali Murad

2017-07-01

Full Text Available A number of A5M5O17 (A = Na, Ca, Sr, La, Nd, Sm, Gd, Dy, Yb; B = Ti, Nb, Ta type compounds were prepared by a solid-state sintering route and characterized in terms of structure, microstructure and microwave dielectric properties. The compatibility of rare earths with mixed niobate/tantalate and titanate phases was investigated. The larger ionic radii mismatch resulted in the formation of pyrochlore and/or mixed phases while in other cases, pure A5M5O17 phase was formed. The samples exhibited relative permittivity in the range of 35 to 82, quality factor (Q × fo = 897 GHz to 11946 GHz and temperature coefficient of resonance frequency (τf = -120 ppm/°C to 318 ppm/°C.

Development of a TiAl Alloy by Spark Plasma Sintering

Science.gov (United States)

Couret, Alain; Voisin, Thomas; Thomas, Marc; Monchoux, Jean-Philippe

2017-12-01

Spark plasma sintering (SPS) is a consolidated powder metallurgy process for which the powder sintering is achieved through an applied electric current. The present article aims to describe the method we employed to develop a TiAl-based alloy adjusted for this SPS process. Owing to its enhanced mechanical properties, this alloy was found to fully match the industrial specifications for the aeronautic and automotive industries, which require a high strength at high temperature and a reasonably good ductility at room temperature. A step-by-step method was followed for this alloy development. Starting from a basic study on the as-SPSed GE alloy (Ti-48Al-2Cr-2Nb) in which the influence of the microstructure was studied, the microstructure-alloy composition relationships were then investigated to increase the mechanical properties. As a result of this study, we concluded that tungsten had to be the major alloying element to improve the resistance at high temperature and a careful addition of boron would serve the properties at room temperature. Thus, we developed the IRIS alloy (Ti-48Al-2W-0.08B). Its microstructure and mechanical properties are described here.

Spark Plasma Co-Sintering of Mechanically Milled Tool Steel and High Speed Steel Powders.

Science.gov (United States)

Pellizzari, Massimo; Fedrizzi, Anna; Zadra, Mario

2016-06-16

Hot work tool steel (AISI H13) and high speed steel (AISI M3:2) powders were successfully co-sintered to produce hybrid tool steels that have properties and microstructures that can be modulated for specific applications. To promote co-sintering, which is made difficult by the various densification kinetics of the two steels, the particle sizes and structures were refined by mechanical milling (MM). Near full density samples (>99.5%) showing very fine and homogeneous microstructure were obtained using spark plasma sintering (SPS). The density of the blends (20, 40, 60, 80 wt % H13) was in agreement with the linear rule of mixtures. Their hardness showed a positive deviation, which could be ascribed to the strengthening effect of the secondary particles altering the stress distribution during indentation. A toughening of the M3:2-rich blends could be explained in view of the crack deviation and crack arrest exerted by the H13 particles.

Spark Plasma Co-Sintering of Mechanically Milled Tool Steel and High Speed Steel Powders

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Massimo Pellizzari

2016-06-01

Full Text Available Hot work tool steel (AISI H13 and high speed steel (AISI M3:2 powders were successfully co-sintered to produce hybrid tool steels that have properties and microstructures that can be modulated for specific applications. To promote co-sintering, which is made difficult by the various densification kinetics of the two steels, the particle sizes and structures were refined by mechanical milling (MM. Near full density samples (>99.5% showing very fine and homogeneous microstructure were obtained using spark plasma sintering (SPS. The density of the blends (20, 40, 60, 80 wt % H13 was in agreement with the linear rule of mixtures. Their hardness showed a positive deviation, which could be ascribed to the strengthening effect of the secondary particles altering the stress distribution during indentation. A toughening of the M3:2-rich blends could be explained in view of the crack deviation and crack arrest exerted by the H13 particles.

Low temperature sintering of fluorapatite glass-ceramics.

Science.gov (United States)

Denry, Isabelle; Holloway, Julie A

2014-02-01

Fluorapatite glass-ceramics have been shown to be excellent candidates as scaffold materials for bone grafts, however, scaffold production by sintering is hindered by concurrent crystallization of the glass. Objective, our goal was to investigate the effect of Ca/Al ratio on the sintering behavior of Nb-doped fluorapatite-based glasses in the SiO2-Al2O3-P2O5-MgO-Na2O-K2O-CaO-CaF2 system. Methods, glass compositions with Ca/Al ratio of 1 (A), 2 (B), 4 (C) and 19 (D) were prepared by twice melting at 1525°C for 3h. Glasses were either cast as cylindrical ingots or ground into powders. Disk-shaped specimens were prepared by either sectioning from the ingots or powder-compacting in a mold, followed by heat treatment at temperatures ranging between 700 and 1050°C for 1h. The density was measured on both sintered specimens and heat treated discs as controls. The degree of sintering was determined from these measurements. Results and Significance XRD showed that fluorapatite crystallized in all glass-ceramics. A high degree of sintering was achieved at 775°C for glass-ceramic D (98.99±0.04%), and 900°C for glass-ceramic C (91.31±0.10). Glass-ceramics A or B were only partially sintered at 1000°C (63.6±0.8% and 74.1±1.5%, respectively). SEM revealed a unique microstructure of micron-sized spherulitic fluorapatite crystals in glass-ceramics C and D. Increasing the Ca/Al ratio promoted low temperature sintering of fluorapatite glass-ceramics, which are traditionally difficult to sinter. Copyright © 2013 Academy of Dental Materials. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Microstructure and microanalysis studies of copper-nickel-tin alloys obtained by conventional powder metallurgy processing

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Monteiro, Waldemar A.; Carrio, Juan A.G.; Masson, T.J.; Vitor, E.; Abreu, C.D.; Marques, I.M.

2009-01-01

The aim of this paper was to analyze the microstructural development in samples of Cu-Ni-Sn alloys (weight %) obtained by powder metallurgy (P/M). The powders were mixed for 1/2 hour. After this, they were pressed, in a cold uniaxial pressing (1000 kPa). In the next step the specimens were sintered at temperatures varying from 650 up to 780 deg C under vacuum. Secondly, the samples were homogenized at 500 deg C for several special times. The alloys were characterized by optical microscopy, electrical conductivity and Vickers hardness. X-rays powder diffraction data were collected for the sintered samples in order to a structural and microstructural analysis. The comparative analysis is based on the sintered density, densification parameter, hardness, macrostructures and microstructures of the samples. (author)

X-ray powder diffraction analysis of liquid-phase-sintered silicon carbide ceramics

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Ortiz, A.L.; Sanchez-Bajo, F. [Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz (Spain). Dept. de Electronica e Ingenieria Electromecanica; Cumbrera, F.L. [Universidad de Extremadura, Badajoz (Spain). Dept. de Fisica

2002-07-01

In an attempt to gain a comprehensive understanding of the microstructural evolution in liquid-phase-sintered silicon carbide ceramics, the effect of the starting {beta}-SiC powder has been studied. Pellets of two different {beta}-SiC starting powders were sintered with simultaneous additions of Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} and Y{sub 2}O{sub 3} at 1950 C for 1 hour in flowing argon atmosphere. Here we have used X-ray diffraction to obtain the relative abundance of the resulting SiC polytypes after sintering. The significant influence of the defects concentration on the {beta} to {alpha} transformation rate has been determined using the Rietveld method. (orig.)

Preparation, microstructures, and properties of PuO2

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Bickford, D.F.; Rankin, D.T.; Smith, P.K.

1976-01-01

PuO 2 pellets with controlled microstructures were fabricated to meet operational requirements for packaged heat sources. Size distributions, morphologies (forms and structures), and packing densities were measured on calcined and milled powders, slugged compacts, and presintered granules. These variables influence microstructure, porosity distribution, and fracture behavior of hot-pressed and sintered PuO 2

Development and sintering of alumina based mixed oxide ceramic products for sensor applications in petroleum industries

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Yadava, Y.P.; Muniz, L.B.; Aguiar, L.A.R.; Sanguinetti Ferreira, R.A. [Departamento de Engenharia Mecanica, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, CEP 50741-530, Recife-PE (Brazil); Albino Aguiar, J. [Departamento de Fisica, Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, CEP 50670-901 Recife-PE (Brazil)

2005-07-01

In petroleum production, different types of sensors are required to monitor temperature, pressure, leakage of inflammable gases, etc. These sensors work in very hostile environmental conditions and frequently suffer from abrasion and corrosion problems. Presently perovskite oxide based ceramic materials are increasingly being used for such purposes, due to their highly inert behavior in hostile environment. In the present work, we have developed and characterized alumina based complex perovskite oxide ceramics, Ba{sub 2}AlSnO{sub 5.5}. These ceramics were prepared by solid state reaction process and produced in the form of circular discs by uniaxial pressure compaction technique. Green ceramic bodies were sintered at different sintering temperatures (1200 to 1500 deg. C) in air atmosphere. Structural and microstructural characteristics of sintered Ba{sub 2}AlMO{sub 5.5} were studied by XRD and SEM techniques. Mechanical properties were tested by Vickers microhardness tests. Ceramics sintered in the temperature range 1300 deg. C 1400 deg. C presented best results in terms of microstructural characteristics and mechanical performance. (authors)

Pressureless sintering behavior and mechanical properties of ZrB2–SiC composites: effect of SiC content and particle size

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Mehri Mashhadi

2015-10-01

Full Text Available In the present paper, ZrB2–SiC composites were prepared by pressureless sintering at temperatures of 2000–2200 °C for 1 h under argon atmosphere. In order to prepare composite samples, ZrB2 powder was milled for 2 h, then the reinforcing particles including of micron and nano-sized SiC powder were added. The mixtures were formed and, after the pyrolysis, they were sintered. Densification, microstructural and mechanical properties of ZrB2–SiC composites were investigated. The shrinkage of samples was measured both before and after the sintering, and the microstructure of samples was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM, equipped with EDS spectroscopy. Both mass fraction and size of SiC powder have a great effect on relative density, porosity, shrinkage, hardness and microstructure of these composites. The highest relative density and hardness were 98.12% and 15.02 GPa, respectively, in ZrB2–10 wt% SiCnano composite sintered at 2200 °C.

Field assisted sintering of refractory carbide ceramics and fiber reinforced ceramic matrix composites

Science.gov (United States)

Gephart, Sean

The sintering behaviors of silicon carbide (SiC) and boron carbide (B4C) based materials were investigated using an emerging sintering technology known as field assisted sintering technology (FAST), also known as spark plasma sintering (SPS) and pulse electric current sintering (PECS). Sintering by FAST utilizes high density electric current, uniaxial pressure, and relatively high heating rate compared to conventional sintering techniques. This effort investigated issues of scaling from laboratory FAST system (25 ton capacity) to industrial FAST system (250 ton capacity), as well as exploring the difference in sintering behavior of single phase B4C and SiC using FAST and conventional sintering techniques including hot-pressing (HP) and pressure-less sintering (PL). Materials were analyzed for mechanical and bulk properties, including characterization of density, hardness, fracture toughness, fracture (bend) strength, elastic modulus and microstructure. A parallel investigation was conducted in the development of ceramic matrix composites (CMC) using SiC powder impregnation of fiber compacts followed by FAST sintering. The FAST technique was used to sinter several B4C and SiC materials to near theoretical density. Preliminary efforts established optimized sintering temperatures using the smaller 25 ton laboratory unit, targeting a sample size of 40 mm diameter and 8 mm thickness. Then the same B4C and SiC materials were sintered by the larger 250 ton industrial FAST system, a HP system, and PL sintering system with a targeted dense material geometry of 4 x 4 x 0.315 inches3 (101.6 x 101.6 x 8 mm3). The resulting samples were studied to determine if the sintering dynamics and/or the resulting material properties were influenced by the sintering technique employed. This study determined that FAST sintered ceramic materials resulted in consistently higher averaged values for mechanical properties as well as smaller grain size when compared to conventionally sintered

Microstructures and mechanical properties of Fe-28Al-5Cr/TiC composites produced by hot-pressing sintering

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Zhang Xinghua; Yang Jun; Ma Jiqiang; Bi Qinling; Cheng Jun; Liang Yongmin; Liu Weimin

2011-01-01

Highlights: → The near fully dense Fe-28Al-5Cr/TiC composites are produced by hot-pressing sintering. → All the materials exhibit high compressive and bending strength. → Compressive strength increases but bending strength and ductility diminish with rising TiC amount in the composites. → Wear resistance significantly increases with rising TiC amount. - Abstract: The mechanical properties and microstructures of Fe-28Al-5Cr based composites reinforced with 15, 25, 35, 50 wt.% TiC ceramic particle, produced by hot-pressing sintering method, were investigated. The relative density of all the composites was up to 99%. The distribution of TiC was uniform in the composites. Results of XRD analysis showed that the composites were composed of TiC and disorder Fe 3 Al phases. All the materials exhibited very high strength of 1200-2000 MPa. The hardness and compressive strength of the composites increased obviously but compressive strain decreased gradually except 50% composite with increasing TiC content. The bending strength and deflection of the composites decreased significantly with increasing TiC content. The bending fracture surfaces of all the materials were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The fracture mode transformed gradually from tough dimple fracture mode to brittle cleavage facets crack mode with the increase of TiC content. Wear resistance of the Fe-28Al-5Cr alloy was also significantly improved by addition of TiC.

Role of oxygen partial pressure in microstructural development and properties of YBCO superconductors

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Singh, J.P.; Guttschow, R.; Dusek, J.T.; Poeppel, R.B.

1991-01-01

Results are presented for the effect of oxygen partial pressure (pO 2 ) on the sintered density and microstructure of YBCO superconductors. Extruded YBCO wires were sintered at 910C at different values of pO 2 . Generally, the density increased with decreasing pO 2 , and a density of 91% was achieved at pO 2 = 0.01 atm. Wires sintered at pO 2 = 0.01 atm had a fine microstructure with an average grain size of ∼3 μm and an average strength of 191 MPa. The high strength is due to the small grain size, which causes a decrease in residual tensile stress because of grain anisotropy

Sintering Theory and Practice

Science.gov (United States)

German, Randall M.

1996-01-01

Although sintering is an essential process in the manufacture of ceramics and certain metals, as well as several other industrial operations, until now, no single book has treated both the background theory and the practical application of this complex and often delicate procedure. In Sintering Theory and Practice, leading researcher and materials engineer Randall M. German presents a comprehensive treatment of this subject that will be of great use to manufacturers and scientists alike. This practical guide to sintering considers the fact that while the bonding process improves strength and other engineering properties of the compacted material, inappropriate methods of control may lead to cracking, distortion, and other defects. It provides a working knowledge of sintering, and shows how to avoid problems while accounting for variables such as particle size, maximum temperature, time at that temperature, and other problems that may cause changes in processing. The book describes the fundamental atomic events that govern the transformation from particles to solid, covers all forms of the sintering process, and provides a summary of many actual production cycles. Building from the ground up, it begins with definitions and progresses to measurement techniques, easing the transition, especially for students, into advanced topics such as single-phase solid-state sintering, microstructure changes, the complications of mixed particles, and pressure-assisted sintering. German draws on some six thousand references to provide a coherent and lucid treatment of the subject, making scientific principles and practical applications accessible to both students and professionals. In the process, he also points out and avoids the pitfalls found in various competing theories, concepts, and mathematical disputes within the field. A unique opportunity to discover what sintering is all about--both in theory and in practice What is sintering? We see the end product of this thermal

The pressureless sintering and mechanical properties of AlON ceramic

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Zhang, N., E-mail: zhangning5832@163.com [Key Lab. of Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110044 (China); Liang, B.; Wang, X.Y.; Kan, H.M.; Zhu, K.W. [Key Lab. of Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technology of Liaoning Province, Shenyang University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110044 (China); Zhao, X.J. [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, School of Materials and Metallurgy, Northeastern University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110004 (China)

2011-07-25

Highlights: {yields} A one-step pressureless sintering process was proposed, which is simple and viable. {yields} Cheap and easily available {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} and aluminum powders were chosen as raw materials substituting for expensive AlN ultrafine powders. {yields} The sintering temperature of AlON ceramic was reduced by 50 deg. C and the flexural strength was enhanced by 29.4%. - Abstract: Aluminum oxynitride (AlON) ceramic was synthesized by one-step pressureless sintering technology using low cost and easily available {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} and aluminum powders as raw materials. The sintering temperature was reduced because aluminum powders were nitridized into high activity AlN under the flowing nitrogen atmosphere. The curves of thermal analysis, microstructure and atomic distribution were investigated. The influence of sintering temperatures on phase composition, sintering densification and flexural strength was also explored. The experimental results showed that {alpha}-Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} and aluminum powders were acceptable substitutes for more expensive AlN ultrafine powders. Under the optimum sintering process at 1750 deg. C for 2 h, the sintered density and flexural strength of AlON ceramic were higher, 3.62 g/cm{sup 3} and 321 MPa, respectively. The sintering temperature was decreased by 50 deg. C because newly formed high activity AlN in situ reacted with Al{sub 2}O{sub 3} into Al{sub 23}O{sub 27}N{sub 5}, enhancing flexural strength by 29.4%. However, the sintering temperature could not be too high because grain growth and displacement of oxygen atoms from AlON ceramics by nitrogen atoms caused a decline in sintering densification and flexural strength.

Structural comparison of sintering products made of "TiC + Ti" composite powders and "Ti + C" powder mixtures

Science.gov (United States)

Krinitcyn, Maksim G.; Pribytkov, Gennadii A.; Korosteleva, Elena N.; Firsina, Irina A.; Baranovskii, Anton V.

2017-12-01

In this study, powder composite materials comprised of TiC and Ti with different ratios are processed by sintering of Ti and C powder mixtures and self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) in "Ti+C" system followed by sintering. The microstructure and porosity of obtained composites are investigated and discussed. The dependence of porosity on sintering time is explained theoretically. Optimal regimes that enable to obtain the most homogeneous structure with the least porosity are described.

Sintering behaviour of CeO2-Gd2O3 powders prepared by the oxalate coprecipitation method

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Duran, P.; Jurado, J.R.; Moure, C.

1993-01-01

The powder and compact characteristics as well as the sintering behaviour of two CeO 2 -Gd 2 O 3 compositions prepared by the oxalate coprecipitation method are studied as a function of the powder particle size and the pore-size distribution in the powder compacts. Shrinkage was measured at a constant heating rate and the results are compared with those obtained by isothermal sintering experiments. Grain growth and microstructural development on sintered samples were studied. (orig.)

Double Step Sintering Behavior Of 316L Nanoparticle Dispersed Micro-Sphere Powder

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Jeon Byoungjun

2015-06-01

Full Text Available 316L stainless steel is a well-established engineering material and lots of components are fabricated by either ingot metallurgy or powder metallurgy. From the viewpoints of material properties and process versatility, powder metallurgy has been widely applied in industries. Generally, stainless steel powders are prepared by atomization processes and powder characteristics, compaction ability, and sinterability are quite different according to the powder preparation process. In the present study, a nanoparticle dispersed micro-sphere powder is synthesized by pulse wire explosion of 316L stainless steel wire in order to facilitate compaction ability and sintering ability. Nanoparticles which are deposited on the surface of micro-powder are advantageous for a rigid die compaction while spherical micro-powder is not to be compacted. Additionally, double step sintering behavior is observed for the powder in the dilatometry of cylindrical compact body. Earlier shrinkage peak comes from the sintering of nanoparticle and later one results from the micro-powder sintering. Microstructure as well as phase composition of the sintered body is investigated.

Applications of microwave radiation environmental remediation technologies

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Krause, T.R.; Helt, J.E.

1993-01-01

A growing number of environmental remediation technologies (e.g., drying, melting, or sintering) utilize microwave radiation as an integral part of the process. An increasing number of novel applications, such as sustaining low-temperature plasmas or enhancing chemical reactivity, are also being developed. An overview of such technologies being developed by the Department of Energy is presented. A specific example being developed at Argonne National Laboratory, microwave-induced plasma reactors for the destruction of volatile organic compounds, is discussed in more detail

Soft-lithographic patterning of room termperature-sintering Ag Nanoparticles on foil

NARCIS (Netherlands)

Moonen, P.; Bat, E.; Voorthuijzen, W. Pim; Huskens, Jurriaan

2013-01-01

Room temperature-sintering, poly(acrylic acid)-capped silver nanoparticles (Ag-PAA NPs) were used in a wide range of nanofabrication methods to form metallic silver microstructures on flexible poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) substrates. Silver wires on top of PET foil were patterned by

Effects of sintering temperature on properties of toroid cores using NiZnCu ferrites for power applications at >1 MHz

Science.gov (United States)

Liu, Junchang; Mei, Yunhui; Liu, Wen; Li, Xin; Hou, Feng; Lu, Guo-Quan

2018-05-01

The microstructures, magnetic and electronic performance of NiZnCu ferrites have been investigated at temperature from 850 °C to 1000 °C. X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns showed that only single phase with spinel structure existed. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) results showed that grain size increased with enhancement of sintering temperature and the most homogeneous, compact microstructure was obtained at 950 °C. Magnetic properties measurements revealed that both complex permeability and saturation magnetization increased with increasing of sintering temperature. The initial permeability was approximately linear within the scope of 850-1000 °C as well as the resonance frequency decreased from 70 MHz to 30 MHz. Power loss density tests demonstrated that the core sintered at 950 °C instead of the one sintered at 1000 °C had the lower power loss density at both 5 mT and 10 mT and the higher inductance under a certain exciting direct current at 1 MHz. Also the inductance of the sample sintered at the higher temperature dropped faster than that at the lower temperature. The results showed that the core sintered at 950 °C had better electrical performance and was suitable for wide usage.

Conventional and two step sintering of PZT-PCN ceramics

Science.gov (United States)

Keshavarzi, Mostafa; Rahmani, Hooman; Nemati, Ali; Hashemi, Mahdieh

2018-02-01

In this study, PZT-PCN ceramic was made via sol-gel seeding method and effects of conventional sintering (CS) as well as two-step sintering (TSS) were investigated on microstructure, phase formation, density, dielectric and piezoelectric properties. First, high quality powder was achieved by seeding method in which the mixture of Co3O4 and Nb2O5 powder was added to the prepared PZT sol to form PZT-PCN gel. After drying and calcination, pyrochlore free PZT-PCN powder was synthesized. Second, CS and TSS were applied to achieve dense ceramic. The optimum temperature used for 2 h of conventional sintering was obtained at 1150 °C; finally, undesired ZrO2 phase formed in CS procedure was removed successfully with TSS procedure and dielectric and piezoelectric properties were improved compared to the CS procedure. The best electrical properties obtained for the sample sintered by TSS in the initial temperature of T 1 = 1200 °C and secondary temperature of T 2 = 1000 °C for 12 h.

Effect of spark plasma sintering conditions on the thermoelectric properties of (Bi{sub 0.25}Sb{sub 0.75}){sub 2}Te{sub 3} alloys

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Lim, Sang-Soon [Center for Electronic Materials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 136-791 (Korea, Republic of); Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 120-749 (Korea, Republic of); Kim, Ju-Heon [High Temp. Energy Materials Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 136-791 (Korea, Republic of); Kwon, Beomjin; Kim, Seong Keun [Center for Electronic Materials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 136-791 (Korea, Republic of); Park, Hyung-Ho [Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 120-749 (Korea, Republic of); Lee, Ki-Suk; Baik, Jeong Min [School of Materials and Science Engineering, UNIST, Ulsan 689-798 (Korea, Republic of); KIST-UNIST Ulsan Center for Convergent Materials, UNIST, Ulsan 689-798 (Korea, Republic of); Choi, Won Jun [Center for Opto-Electronic Materials and Devices, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 136-791 (Korea, Republic of); Kim, Dong-Ik [High Temp. Energy Materials Research Center, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 136-791 (Korea, Republic of); Hyun, Dow-Bin; Kim, Jin-Sang [Center for Electronic Materials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 136-791 (Korea, Republic of); Baek, Seung-Hyub, E-mail: shbaek77@kist.re.kr [Center for Electronic Materials, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 136-791 (Korea, Republic of); KIST-UNIST Ulsan Center for Convergent Materials, UNIST, Ulsan 689-798 (Korea, Republic of); Department of Nanomaterials Science and Technology, Korea University of Science and Technology, Daejeon, 305-333 (Korea, Republic of)

2016-09-05

As a field-assisted technique, spark plasma sintering (SPS) enables densification of specimens in a very short period of time compared to other sintering techniques. For high performance thermoelectric material synthesis, SPS is widely used to fabricate nanograin-structured thermoelectric materials by rapidly densifying the nanopowders suppressing grain growth. However, the microstructural evolution behavior of thermoelectric materials by SPS, another important process during sintering, has been rarely studied. Here, we explore SPS as a tool to control the microstructure by long-time SPS. Using p-type (Bi{sub 0.25}Sb{sub 0.75}){sub 2}Te{sub 3} thermoelectric materials as a model system, we systematically vary SPS temperature and time to understand the correlations between SPS conditions, microstructural evolution, and the thermoelectric properties. Our results show that the relatively low eutectic temperature (∼420 °C) and the existence of volatile tellurium (Te) are critical factors to determine both microstructure and thermoelectric property. In the liquid-phase sintering regime, rapid evaporation of Te leads to a strong dependence of thermoelectric property on SPS time. On the other hand, in the solid-phase sintering regime, there is a weak dependence on SPS time. The optimum thermoelectric figure-of-merit (Z) of 2.93 × 10{sup −3}/K is achieved by SPS at 500 °C for 30 min. Our results will provide an insight on the optimization of SPS conditions for materials containing volatile elements with low eutectic temperature. - Highlights: • Spark plasma sintering (SPS) is used to synthesize the thermoelectric (Bi{sub 0.25}Sb{sub 0.75}){sub 2}Te{sub 3}. • Liquid phase and volatile element are a key for the microstructure and thermoelectric property. • Thermoelectric figure-of-merit of 2.9 × 10{sup −3}/K is achieved at 500 °C for 30 min.

Microwave dielectric properties and microstructure of Ba{sub 6−3x}Nd{sub 8+2x}Ti{sub 18−y}(Cr{sub 1/2}Nb{sub 1/2}){sub y}O{sub 54} ceramics

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Guo, Xia [State Key Laboratory of Electronic Thin Films and Integrated Devices, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Jianshe Road, Chengdu 610054 (China); Tang, Bin, E-mail: tangbin@uestc.edu.cn [State Key Laboratory of Electronic Thin Films and Integrated Devices, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Jianshe Road, Chengdu 610054 (China); Liu, Jiaqin [Sichuan Special Equipment Inspection Institute, Dongfeng Road, Chengdu 610061 (China); Chen, Hetuo; Zhang, Shuren [State Key Laboratory of Electronic Thin Films and Integrated Devices, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Jianshe Road, Chengdu 610054 (China)

2015-10-15

The microwave dielectric properties and the morphology of Ba{sub 6−3x}Nd{sub 8+2x}Ti{sub 18−y}(Cr{sub 1/2}Nb{sub 1/2}){sub y}O{sub 54} (x = 0.75, 0 ≤ y ≤ 3.0) ceramics prepared under different sintering conditions were investigated in this work. The effects of substitutions on the microstructure and microwave dielectric properties were discussed. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns of the sintered samples revealed a single-phase formation BaNd{sub 2}Ti{sub 4}O{sub 12} with a tungsten bronze type structure in the system. The results of energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) and lattice parameters calculated on XRD data could confirm the substitution at B-site. A small amount of substitutions improved quality factor value (Q × f) and the temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τ{sub f}) but led to a decrease of the permittivity. The temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τ{sub f}) was found to decrease with increasing substitutions because of the declination of tolerance factor (t). And the τ{sub f} could be adjusted from +62.4 ppm/°C to −7.3 ppm/°C with increment of substitutions. Finally, excellent dielectric properties were obtained as y was 0.5 sintered at 1400 °C for 2 h in air: ε{sub r} = 88.6, Q × f = 11486 GHz, τ{sub f} = +37.1 ppm/°C. - Graphical abstract: It was evident that the tendency of the τ{sub f} was consistent with the variation of tolerance factor (t). The τ{sub f} was much affected by the titling of Ti–O octahedral that bigger ionic radius of (Cr{sub 1/2}Nb{sub 1/2}){sup 4+} substituted for Ti{sup 4+} would significantly reduce the temperature coefficient of resonant frequency. - Highlights: • (Cr{sub 1/2}Nb{sub 1/2}){sup 4+} substitution for Ti{sup 4+} would low down the τ{sub f} of the samples. • The Cr{sup 3+} substitution for Ti{sup 4+} would promote the quality factor. • (Cr{sub 1/2}Nb{sub 1/2}){sup 4+} substitution for Ti{sup 4+} makes the permittivity maintain a high value. • The high Q × f

Spark plasma sintering of pure and doped tungsten as plasma facing material

Science.gov (United States)

Autissier, E.; Richou, M.; Minier, L.; Naimi, F.; Pintsuk, G.; Bernard, F.

2014-04-01

In the current water cooled divertor concept, tungsten is an armour material and CuCrZr is a structural material. In this work, a fabrication route via a powder metallurgy process such as spark plasma sintering is proposed to fully control the microstructure of W and W composites. The effect of chemical composition (additives) and the powder grain size was investigated. To reduce the sintering temperature, W powders doped with a nano-oxide dispersion of Y2O3 are used. Consequently, the sintering temperature for W-oxide dispersed strengthened (1800 °C) is lower than for pure W powder. Edge localized mode tests were performed on pure W and compared to other preparation techniques and showed promising results.

Enhanced proton conductivity of yttrium-doped barium zirconate with sinterability in protonic ceramic fuel cells

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Park, Ka-Young; Seo, Yongho; Kim, Ki Buem; Song, Sun-Ju; Park, Byoungnam; Park, Jun-Young

2015-01-01

Highlights: • Report effects of ceramic processing methods on the electrical conductivity of BZY. • Present effects of sintering aids on the conductivity and density of BZY. • CuO is the most effective sintering aid for the BZY. • Polymer gelation is the most effective method in terms of conductivity of BZY. • Grain boundary conductivity of the polymer gelation BZY is higher than others. - Abstract: In this study, we report the effects of various ceramic processing methods with different sintering aids on the relative density, crystallinity, microstructure, and electrical conductivity of proton conducting BaZr 0.85 Y 0.15 O 3−δ (BZY) pellets in details. First, the BZY ceramic pellets are fabricated by the solid-state reactive sintering by adding diverse sintering aids including CuO, NiO, ZnO, SnO, MgO, and Al 2 O 3 . Among these, CuO is found to be the most effective sintering aid in terms of the sintering temperature and total conductivity. However, transition metals as sintering aids have detrimental effects on the electrical conductivity of the BZY electrolytes. Second, the BZY electrolytes have been synthesized by four different methods: the solid-state, combustion, hydrothermal, and polymer gelation methods. The BZY pellets synthesized by the polymer gelation method exhibit dense microstructure with a high relative density of 95.3%. Moreover, the electrical conductivity of the BZY pellets synthesized by the polymer gelation method is higher than those prepared by the solid-state methods under the same test conditions: 1.28 × 10 −2 S cm −1 (by the polymer gelation method) vs. 0.53 × 10 −2 S cm −1 by the solid-state method at 600 °C in wet 5% H 2 in Ar

In situ formation of sintered cordierite–mullite nano–micro composites by utilizing of waste silica fume

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Khattab, R.M.; EL-Rafei, A.M.; Zawrah, M.F.

2012-01-01

Highlights: ► We succeeded to obtain in situ formed sintered cordierite–mullite nano–macro composites from waste and pure materials at 1400 °C. ► Their sinterability was greatly dependent on both firing temperature and composition. ► XRD patterns showed that the optimum temperature required for formation of sintered cordierite–mullite nano–macro composites was achieved at 1400 °C. ► The batch containing 70 wt.% cordierite and 30 wt.% mullite exhibited the best properties. ► Microstructures of the densified composites were composed of nano–macro cordierite–mullite structures. -- Abstract: This study aims at in situ formation of sintered cordierite–mullite nano–macro composites having high technological properties using waste silica fume, calcined ball clay, calcined alumina, and magnesia as starting materials. The starting materials were mixed in different ratios to obtain different cordierite–mullite composite batches in which the cordierite contents ranged from 50 to 100 wt.%. The batches were uni-axially pressed at 100 MPa and sintered at 1350, 1400 and 1450 °C to select the optimum temperature required for cordierite–mullite nano–macro composites formation. The formed phases were identified by X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern. The sintering parameters in terms of bulk density (BD) and apparent porosity (AP) were determined. The microstructure of composites has been investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM). Cold crushing strength (CCS) of the sintered batches was evaluated. The result revealed that the cordierite–mullite nano–macro composites were in-situ formed at 1400 °C. The batch containing 70 wt.% cordierite showed good physical and mechanical properties.

Research on Laser Micro Polishing of SLS Technology Sintered Iron-Based Powder Surface

OpenAIRE

Gerda Vaitkūnaitė; Vladislav Markovič; Olegas Černašėjus

2015-01-01

The article analyzes laser micro polishing of 1.2083 steel samples produced applying selective laser sintering (SLS) method. The study has evaluated the distribution of the shape, size and temperature of the laser beam treated area in the surface layer of sintered and laser polished samples. Experimental tests have shown the impact of the technical parameters of laser micro polishing on the width and hardness of the impact zone of the treated sample. The microstructure analysis of laser treat...

Enhanced Densification of PM Steels by Liquid Phase Sintering with Boron-Containing Master Alloy

Science.gov (United States)

Vattur Sundaram, Maheswaran; Surreddi, Kumar Babu; Hryha, Eduard; Veiga, Angela; Berg, Sigurd; Castro, Fransisco; Nyborg, Lars

2018-01-01

Reaching high density in PM steels is important for high-performance applications. In this study, liquid phase sintering of PM steels by adding gas-atomized Ni-Mn-B master alloy was investigated for enhancing the density levels of Fe- and Mo- prealloyed steel powder compacts. The results indicated that liquid formation occurs in two stages, beginning with the master alloy melting (LP-1) below and eutectic phase formation (LP-2) above 1373 K (1100 °C). Mo and C addition revealed a significant influence on the LP-2 temperatures and hence on the final densification behavior and mechanical properties. Microstructural embrittlement occurs with the formation of continuous boride networks along the grain boundaries, and its severity increases with carbon addition, especially for 2.5 wt pct of master alloy content. Sintering behavior, along with liquid generation, microstructural characteristics, and mechanical testing revealed that the reduced master alloy content from 2.5 to 1.5 wt pct (reaching overall boron content from 0.2 to 0.12 wt pct) was necessary for obtaining good ductility with better mechanical properties. Sintering with Ni-Mn-B master alloy enables the sintering activation by liquid phase formation in two stages to attain high density in PM steels suitable for high-performance applications.

Compositional homogeneity in a medical-grade stainless steel sintered with a Mn–Si additive

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Salahinejad, E.; Hadianfard, M.J.; Ghaffari, M.; Mashhadi, Sh. Bagheri; Okyay, A.K.

2012-01-01

In this paper, chemical composition uniformity in amorphous/nanocrystallization medical-grade stainless steel (ASTM ID: F2581) sintered with a Mn–Si additive was studied via scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The results show that as a result of sintering at 1000 °C, no dissociation of Mn–Si additive particles embedded in the stainless steel matrix occurs. In contrast, sintering at 1050 °C develops a relatively homogeneous microstructure from the chemical composition viewpoint. The aforementioned phenomena are explained by liquation of the Mn–Si eutectic additive, thereby wetting of the main powder particles, penetrating into the particle contacts and pore zones via capillary forces, and providing a path of high diffusivity. - Highlights: ► Local chemical composition in a sintered stainless steel was studied. ► Due to sintering at 1000 °C, no dissociation of additive particles occurs. ► Sintering at 1050 °C provides a uniform chemical composition.

Effects of inclusions on the sintering behavior of YBa2Cu3O6+x

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Stearns, L.C.; Harmer, M.P.; Chan, H.M.

1990-01-01

The sintering behavior of two types of heterogeneous compacts of YBa 2 Cu 3 O 6+x was studied: Soft agglomerates present in the starting powder were used to study the effect of rapidly densifying inclusions on the overall sample densification. In this case, the induced stresses caused severe cracklike damage in the sintered microstructure. On the other hand, when nondensifying inclusions (same composition) were incorporated into the starting powder, no sintering damage was observed. Further, there was no retardation of densification or coarsening due to the presence of these dense inclusions, over a wide range of inclusion size. Several possibilities for this behavior are discussed, based on the distribution of stresses induced by differential sintering rates

Effect of SiC Nanowhisker on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of WC-Ni Cemented Carbide Prepared by Spark Plasma Sintering

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Xiaoyong Ren

2014-01-01

Full Text Available Ultrafine tungsten carbide-nickel (WC-Ni cemented carbides with varied fractions of silicon carbide (SiC nanowhisker (0–3.75 wt.% were fabricated by spark plasma sintering at 1350°C under a uniaxial pressure of 50 MPa with the assistance of vanadium carbide (VC and tantalum carbide (TaC as WC grain growth inhibitors. The effects of SiC nanowhisker on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the as-prepared WC-Ni cemented carbides were investigated. X-ray diffraction analysis revealed that during spark plasma sintering (SPS Ni may react with the applied SiC nanowhisker, forming Ni2Si and graphite. Scanning electron microscopy examination indicated that, with the addition of SiC nanowhisker, the average WC grain size decreased from 400 to 350 nm. However, with the additional fractions of SiC nanowhisker, more and more Si-rich aggregates appeared. With the increase in the added fraction of SiC nanowhisker, the Vickers hardness of the samples initially increased and then decreased, reaching its maximum of about 24.9 GPa when 0.75 wt.% SiC nanowhisker was added. However, the flexural strength of the sample gradually decreased with increasing addition fraction of SiC nanowhisker.

Microwave processed NiMg ferrite: Studies on structural and magnetic properties

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Chandra Babu Naidu, K.; Madhuri, W.

2016-01-01

Ferrites are magnetic semiconductors realizing an important role in electrical and electronic circuits where electrical and magnetic property coupling is required. Though ferrite materials are known for a long time, there is a large scope in the improvement of their properties (vice sintering and frequency dependence of electrical and magnetic properties) with the current technological trends. Forth coming technology is aimed at miniaturization and smart gadgets, electrical components like inductors and transformers cannot be included in integrated circuits. These components are incorporated into the circuit as surface mount devices whose fabrication involves low temperature co-firing of ceramics and microwave monolithic integrated circuits technologies. These technologies demand low temperature sinter-ability of ferrites. This article presents low temperature microwave sintered Ni–Mg ferrites of general chemical formula Ni_1_−_xMg_xFe_2O_4 (x=0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.8, 1) for potential applications as transformer core materials. The series of ferrites are characterized using X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared and vibrating sample magnetometer for investigating structural, morphological and magnetic properties respectively. The initial permeability is studied with magnesium content, temperature and frequency in the temperature range of 308 K–873 K and 42 Hz–5 MHz. - Highlights: • First article on microwave processed NiMgFe_2O_4 giving. • The article gives systematic magnetic studies. • Cation distribution is discussed based on magnetic moments from VSM. • Promising candidates for transformer core and soft magnet manufacturing.

Microwave processed NiMg ferrite: Studies on structural and magnetic properties

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Chandra Babu Naidu, K.; Madhuri, W., E-mail: madhuriw12@gmail.com

2016-12-15

Ferrites are magnetic semiconductors realizing an important role in electrical and electronic circuits where electrical and magnetic property coupling is required. Though ferrite materials are known for a long time, there is a large scope in the improvement of their properties (vice sintering and frequency dependence of electrical and magnetic properties) with the current technological trends. Forth coming technology is aimed at miniaturization and smart gadgets, electrical components like inductors and transformers cannot be included in integrated circuits. These components are incorporated into the circuit as surface mount devices whose fabrication involves low temperature co-firing of ceramics and microwave monolithic integrated circuits technologies. These technologies demand low temperature sinter-ability of ferrites. This article presents low temperature microwave sintered Ni–Mg ferrites of general chemical formula Ni{sub 1−x}Mg{sub x}Fe{sub 2}O{sub 4} (x=0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.8, 1) for potential applications as transformer core materials. The series of ferrites are characterized using X-ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared and vibrating sample magnetometer for investigating structural, morphological and magnetic properties respectively. The initial permeability is studied with magnesium content, temperature and frequency in the temperature range of 308 K–873 K and 42 Hz–5 MHz. - Highlights: • First article on microwave processed NiMgFe{sub 2}O{sub 4} giving. • The article gives systematic magnetic studies. • Cation distribution is discussed based on magnetic moments from VSM. • Promising candidates for transformer core and soft magnet manufacturing.

Effects of Synthesis and Spark Plasma Sintering Conditions on the Thermoelectric Properties of Ca3Co4O9+δ

DEFF Research Database (Denmark)

Wu, NingYu; Holgate, Tim; Van Nong, Ngo

2013-01-01

Ca3Co4O9+δ samples were synthesized by solid-state (SS) and sol–gel (SG) reactions, followed by spark plasma sintering under different processing conditions. The synthesis process was optimized and the resulting materials characterized with respect to their microstructure, bulk density, and therm......Ca3Co4O9+δ samples were synthesized by solid-state (SS) and sol–gel (SG) reactions, followed by spark plasma sintering under different processing conditions. The synthesis process was optimized and the resulting materials characterized with respect to their microstructure, bulk density...

Thermophysical Properties of High-Frequency Induction Heat Sintered Graphene Nanoplatelets/Alumina Ceramic Functional Nanocomposites

Science.gov (United States)

Ahmad, Iftikhar; Subhani, Tayyab; Wang, Nannan; Zhu, Yanqiu

2018-05-01

This paper concerns the thermophysical properties of high-frequency induction heat (HFIH) sintered alumina ceramic nanocomposites containing various graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) concentrations. The GNP/alumina nanocomposites demonstrated high densities, fine-grained microstructures, highest fracture toughness and hardness values of 5.7 MPa m1/2 and 18.4 GPa, which found 72 and 8%, superior to the benchmarked monolithic alumina, respectively. We determine the role of GNP in tuning the microstructure and inducing toughening mechanisms in the nanocomposites. The sintered monolithic alumina exhibited thermal conductivity value of 24.8 W/mK; however, steady drops of 2, 15 and 19% were recorded after adding respective GNP contents of 0.25, 0.5 and 1.0 wt.% in the nanocomposites. In addition, a dwindling trend in thermal conductions with increasing temperatures was recorded for all sintered samples. Simulation of experimental results with proven theoretical thermal models showed the dominant role of GNP dispersions, microstructural porosity, elastic modulus and grain size in controlling the thermal transport properties of the GNP/alumina nanocomposites. Thermogravimetric analysis showed that the nanocomposite with up to 0.5 mass% of GNP is thermally stable at the temperatures greater than 875 °C. The GNP/alumina nanocomposites owning a distinctive combination of mechanical and thermal properties are promising contenders for the specific components of the aerospace engine and electronic devices having contact with elevated temperatures.

High pressure sintering (HP-HT) of diamond powders with titanium and titanium carbide

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Jaworska, L.

1999-01-01

Polycrystalline diamond compacts for cutting tools are mostly manufactured using high pressure sintering (HP-HT). The standard diamond compacts are prepared by diamond powders sintering with metallic binding phase. The first group of metallic binder are metals able to solve carbon - Co, Ni. The second group of metal binders are carbide forming elements - Ti, Cr, W and others. The paper describes high pressure sintering of diamond powder with titanium and nonstoichiometry titanium carbide for cutting tool application. A type of binding phase has the significant influence on microstructure and mechanical properties of diamond compacts. Very homogeneous structure was achieved in case of compacts obtained from metalized diamond where diamond-TiC-diamond connection were predominant. In the case of compacts prepared by mechanical mixing of diamond with titanium powders the obtained structure was nonhomogeneous with titanium carbide clusters. They had more diamond to diamond connections. These compacts compared to the compact made of metallized diamond have greater wear resistance. In the case of the diamond and TiC 0.92 sintering the strong bonding of TiC diamond grains was obtained. The microstructure observations for diamond with 5% wt. Ti and diamond with 5% wt. TiC 0.92 (the initial composition) compacts were performed in transmission microscope. For two type of compacts the strong bonding phase TiC without defects is creating. (author)

Preparation and cellular response of porous A-type carbonated hydroxyapatite nanoceramics

International Nuclear Information System (INIS)

Li Bo; Liao Xiaoling; Zheng Li; He Huawei; Wang Hong; Fan Hongsong; Zhang Xingdong

2012-01-01

Microwave sintering using the activated carbon as embedding material was applied in preparation of porous A-type carbonated hydroxyapatite ceramics with nano(nCHA) and submicron (mCHA) structure. By examining the linear shrinkages and the compressive strengths of samples at different temperatures, a suitable microwave sintering temperature was achieved. The microwave sintering method was successfully used to prepare A-type CHA with nano or submicron structure, and the mechanism of the formation of A-type carbonate groups was discussed also. Compared with the samples prepared by the conventional sintering method (mHA), the nCHA bioceramics synthesized by the microwave sintering approach had smaller grain size and more uniform microstructure, and showed a compressive strength similar to the conventional samples. In vitro dissolution test proved that nCHA exhibits better degradation property in comparison to pure HA. Rat osteoblasts were cultured with nCHA, mCHA and mHA to evaluate their biocompatibility, and nCHA showed significant enhancement of cells in attachment, proliferation and differentiation. In conclusion, carbonate groups can be easily introduced to HA crystal structure using the activated carbon as embedding material, and microwave sintering is an effective and simple method in preparing A-type CHA with a nanostructure. Results from this in vitro biological study suggest that porous A-type carbonated hydroxyapatite nanoceramics may be a much better candidate for clinical use in terms of bioactivity. - Highlights: ► We prepared porous A-type carbonated hydroxyapatite nanoceramics with microwave sintering. ► We examined physico-chemical characterization and osteoblast response. ► The nanoceramics have a comparable compressive strength to samples with conventional sintering method. ► The nanoceramics enhance degradation property, osteoblast proliferation and differentiation. ► The activated carbon is favorable for preheating samples and providing

Effects of surrounding powder in sintering process on the properties of Sb and Mn- doped barium-strontium titanate PTCR ceramics

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Pornsuda Bomlai

2006-05-01

Full Text Available In this research, the effects of surrounding powder used during sintering of Sb and Mn doped bariumstrontium titanate (BST ceramics were studied. The ceramic samples were prepared by a conventional mixed-oxide method and placed on different powders during sintering. Phase formation, microstructure and PTCR behavior of the samples were then observed. Microstructures and PTCR behavior varied with the type of surrounding powder, whereas the crystal structure did not change. The surrounding powder has more effects on the shape of the grain than on the size. The grain size of samples was in the range of 5-20 μm. The most uniform grain size and the highest increase of the ratio of ρmax/ρRT were found to be about 106 for samples which had been sintered on Sb-doped BST powder. This value was an order of magnitude greater than for samples sintered on a powder of the equivalent composition to that of the sample pellet.

Peridynamic Theory as a New Paradigm for Multiscale Modeling of Sintering

Energy Technology Data Exchange (ETDEWEB)

Silling, Stewart A. [Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States); Abdeljawad, Fadi [Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States); Ford, Kurtis Ross [Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)

2017-09-01

Sintering is a component fabrication process in which powder is compacted by pressing or some other means and then held at elevated temperature for a period of hours. The powder grains bond with each other, leading to the formation of a solid component with much lower porosity, and therefore higher density and higher strength, than the original powder compact. In this project, we investigated a new way of computationally modeling sintering at the length scale of grains. The model uses a high-fidelity, three-dimensional representation with a few hundred nodes per grain. The numerical model solves the peridynamic equations, in which nonlocal forces allow representation of the attraction, adhesion, and mass diffusion between grains. The deformation of the grains is represented through a viscoelastic material model. The project successfully demonstrated the use of this method to reproduce experimentally observed features of material behavior in sintering, including densification, the evolution of microstructure, and the occurrence of random defects in the sintered solid.

Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Graphene-Reinforced Titanium Matrix/Nano-Hydroxyapatite Nanocomposites.

Science.gov (United States)

Li, Feng; Jiang, Xiaosong; Shao, Zhenyi; Zhu, Degui; Zhu, Minhao

2018-04-16

Biomaterial composites made of titanium and hydroxyapatite (HA) powder are among the most important biomedicalmaterials due to their good mechanical properties and biocompatibility. In this work, graphene-reinforced titanium matrix/nano-hydroxyapatite nanocomposites were prepared by vacuum hot-pressing sintering. The microstructure and mechanical properties of graphene-reinforced titanium matrix/nano-hydroxyapatite nanocomposites with different graphene content were systematically investigated. Microstructures of the nanocomposites were examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD), back scattered electron imaging (BSE), scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA), and transmission electron microscope (TEM). The mechanical properties were determined from microhardness, shear strength, and compressive strength. Results showed that during the high-temperature sintering process, complex chemical reactions occurred, resulting in new phases of nucleation such as Ca₃(PO₄)₂, Ti x P y , and Ti₃O.The new phases, which easily dropped off under the action of external force, could hinder the densification of sintering and increase the brittleness of the nanocomposites. Results demonstrated that graphene had an impact on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. Based on the mechanical properties and microstructure of the nanocomposites, the strengthening and fracture mechanisms of the graphene-reinforced titanium matrix/nano-hydroxyapatite nanocomposites with different graphene content were analyzed.

Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Graphene-Reinforced Titanium Matrix/Nano-Hydroxyapatite Nanocomposites

Directory of Open Access Journals (Sweden)

Feng Li

2018-04-01

Full Text Available Biomaterial composites made of titanium and hydroxyapatite (HA powder are among the most important biomedicalmaterials due to their good mechanical properties and biocompatibility. In this work, graphene-reinforced titanium matrix/nano-hydroxyapatite nanocomposites were prepared by vacuum hot-pressing sintering. The microstructure and mechanical properties of graphene-reinforced titanium matrix/nano-hydroxyapatite nanocomposites with different graphene content were systematically investigated. Microstructures of the nanocomposites were examined by X-ray diffraction (XRD, back scattered electron imaging (BSE, scanning electron microscope (SEM equipped with energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS, electron probe microanalyzer (EPMA, and transmission electron microscope (TEM. The mechanical properties were determined from microhardness, shear strength, and compressive strength. Results showed that during the high-temperature sintering process, complex chemical reactions occurred, resulting in new phases of nucleation such as Ca3(PO42, TixPy, and Ti3O.The new phases, which easily dropped off under the action of external force, could hinder the densification of sintering and increase the brittleness of the nanocomposites. Results demonstrated that graphene had an impact on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites. Based on the mechanical properties and microstructure of the nanocomposites, the strengthening and fracture mechanisms of the graphene-reinforced titanium matrix/nano-hydroxyapatite nanocomposites with different graphene content were analyzed.