Survey of classification practices and needs: Technical working area 14 on the classification of advanced ceramics

Abstract

Currently, there is no accepted classification system in place for advanced ceramics, products, and what is evolving through common practice is discordant among ceramic producers and users within nations and between nations. One of the first activities undertaken by the Task Group of VAMAS Technical Working Area 14 was a comprehensive survey to assess the classification practices and preferences of industry. Questionnaires were distributed to ceramic producers, users and R&D companies in 14 countries. Three hundred businesses were queried, of which 48% responded to the questionnaire, which was 36 pages long. Answers to survey questions generally were consistent between companies irrespective of national location. The following summarizes the major findings of this international survey on the classification of advanced ceramics: 1. (1) The scope of products covered by a classification system for advanced ceramics should include those conventionally termed ‘technical’ and ‘engineering’ ceramics as well as the newer materials, all of which have similar technical characteristics and use applications. 2. (2) The definition of advanced ceramics should be broadly phrased in a manner to imply the special technical character of the vast array of product types. The definition should include keyword descriptive terms such as ‘inorganic’, ‘non-metallic’, ‘highly engineered’, ‘high performance’ and ‘specific functional attributes’. 3. (3) In tandem with the setting of a definition, a companion terminology set must be developed, as existing ceramic dictionaries are not sufficiently precise to describe fully this product class. 4. (4) Currently, industry identifies or categorizes advanced ceramics by two methods: 4.1. (a) by the basic chemistry of the product; 4.2. (b) by the major functional use, such as electrical, mechanical, etc. Both are viewed as primary identification characteristics and generally are used simultaneously. 5. (5) There was general consensus by industry that there is a pronounced need for a broad-based, multipurpose classification system for advanced ceramics. Once developed, the system should be administered and maintained by a standards organization or a professional society. The essential categorization elements must include the designation of end-use application functions and the defining chemical character of the product. Other distinguishing features, such as properties, must be identified, but as a subset in a hierarchical classification scheme.