Solid-state calcination and synthesis of homogeneous strontium zirconate by slip casting

Abstract

Solid-state synthesis of strontium zirconate (SrZrO3) at 1200 °C by slip casting is proposed as an alternative to the traditional pellet pressing method to improve accessibility and efficiency in laboratory settings. Powders prepared through both methods were characterized for particle size, morphology, chemical purity, and sintering performance. It was found that the slip casting adaptation produced orthorhombic strontium zirconate with similar particle or microstructural characteristics to pellet pressing. Furthermore, production efficiency in a laboratory setting compared to traditional pellet method was significantly increased. The results reported here indicate that slip casting is a suitable alternative method for solid-state synthesis of ceramic powders, particularly in laboratory settings where access to industrial equipment is limited. Synthesis of SrZrO3 by slip casting allowed 70% reduction in person-hours compared to a pellet press approach in a manual laboratory setting.