Gelcasting of Alumina

Abstract

Gelcasting is a novel method for molding ceramic powder based on a synthesis of concepts derived from traditional ceramics and polymer chemistry. Gelcasting of alumina is described in this paper. The process is based on the in situ polymerization of acrylamide monomers as the setting mechanism for forming the green body. It has the following features: slurries with high solids loading and low viscosity (1.8 Pa·s at 62 vol% solids), dried bodies containing less than 4 wt% binder, and the ability to fabricate complex‐shaped bodies.