Performance evaluation of new polymer additives for technical ceramic shaping processes

Ismail M’Barki, Fabrice Rossignol, Anne Aimable, Graham Abramo, Burcu Çelikkol

Abstract

This work evaluates acrylic additives as functional agents in alumina-based ceramic formulations to identify the conditions under which they can act as dispersants, binders and/or plasticizers. The methodology links formulation, shaping, drying, debinding, sintering, and final characterization to establish robust formulation–process–property relationships. Three shaping routes are investigated: freeze granulation followed by pressing, tape casting, and robocasting. Performance is assessed through suspension/paste stability and rheology, green strength and drying sensitivity, as well as debinding/sintering behaviour and the resulting microstructure. The outcomes provide formulation guidelines to improve processability and the quality of advanced ceramic parts.

Keywords:

Tape casting, Robocasting, Rheology, Freeze granulation, Plasticizer, Binder, Dispersant, Acrylic additives, Alumina