Colloidal Processing and Sintering of Alumina and Zirconia Fine Particles Using New Microbial Dispersant

Application of new microbial dispersant to colloidal processing of fine powders of zirconia and alumina was conducted for obtaining fine-grained microstructures. Well-dispersed aqueous suspensions of the fine powders were prepared by adding appropriate amount of new microbial dispersant. The suspensions were characterized by measuring particle size, zeta-potential and rheological properties. Dense green bodies of zirconia and alumina were obtained by slip casting of the suspensions and further CIP treatment. Low-temperature densification was observed, and dense and fine-grained sintered bodies were obtained.