Colloidal processing of alumina

A systematic investigation on the influence of processing conditions (dispersant stabilisign mechanism and solid loading, particle size and particle size distribution, temperature and sintering aid addition-magnesia) on colloidal processing of alumina was conducted. The investigation was rather comprehensive, accounting for all processing steps from suspension preparation, consolidation, drying and sintering. The ultimate goal was to establish a correct methodology to process alumina powders with colloidal techniques and to establish as clearly as possible relationships between processing and microstructures, i.e. how processing controls or modifies the microstructure. Rheology was the main tool used to evaluate and control the correct processing of the powders.