Effect of Binder Content on the Slip Rheology and Green Properties of Slip Cast Alumina

Abstract

The rheology of A96% alumina slips and the physical and mechanical properties of slip cast samples were studied. The slips had a constant solids loading of 40 wt% alumina and a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) content of 0-3 wt%, as a binder. The rheological behavior and viscosity of the slips were examined to determine the flowability of the slips necessary for the casting process. The slips were prepared by ball milling and the bend bar samples were cast in plaster molds. The green densities and the flexural strength of the bars were measured, and the fracture surfaces were examined by scanning electron microscopy. It was found that the slip viscosity increased with an increase of PVA content. The green flexural strength also increased to a maximum value of 0.52 MPa with increasing PVA up to 2 wt%. The further addition of PVA decreased the flexural strength. The green density did not significantly change with the PVA content, however the samples produced using 3 wt% PVA showed the lowest percentage of theoretical density of 41%. The fracture surface of the 3 wt% PVA sample showed numerous large pores compared with the other samples. Therefore, in this study it was concluded that there is in optimal amount of PVA to produce the highest green density and flexural strength of cast samples. Excess PVA reduced the flowability of the slip and resulted in excess porosity, which decreased the green density and deteriorated the flexural strength.