Feedstock development for powder injection moulding of Zirconium Silicate Articles uri icon

publication date

  • March 2012

start page

  • 75

end page

  • 78

issue

  • 1

volume

  • 6

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 1753-1497

abstract

  • The interest in Zirconium Silicate ZrSiO₄(zircon) arises from its wide availability and excellent properties. Due to its hardness, good corrosion resistance, high melting point, low thermal expansion and chemical inertness, ZrSiO₄can be used in many different applications. Powder Injection Moulding is a suitable alternative for ceramic processing. In this paper, a complete PIM process has been developed for ZrSiO₄using micrometer sized powders. Three different binders systems have been investigated: conventional LDPE-PW, HDPE-PEG and an alternative CAB-PEG system. Process parameters for different feedstocks have been evaluated and compared. The behaviour of binders using PEG as an additive is comparable to those using PW, with the benefit of a non harmful solvent. There is evidence of improved compatibility between binder components in the CAB-PEG system leading to higher sinter properties. It has been demonstrated that, for ZrSiO₄contents up to 60 vol.%, injection moulding can be accomplished at low debinding rates.