Ceramic Bodies Research Articles

3D-printed laponite bioceramic triply periodic minimal surface scaffolds with excellent bioactivity for bone regeneration

Laponite (LAP) is a promising biomaterial for bone regeneration due to its reliable biocompatibility and excellent osteoinductivity in bone tissue engineering. However, the personalized manufacture of LAP bioceramic scaffolds with controlled complex architecture and high porosity remains challenging. This study used vat photopolymerization (VPP) to manufacture LAP bioceramic scaffolds with high precision and biological activity. We first selected a 40 wt% LAP bioceramic slurry for subsequent VPP printing based on stability experiments and viscosity characterization results. The curing parameters of the photosensitive bioceramic slurry and the degassing sintering process were studied to ensure the quality of the ceramic green bodies. Then, we characterized the effects of different sintering temperatures (1150°C, 1200°C, 1250°C) on the crystalline phase composition, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the LAP bioceramic. The research showed that the densification and compressive strength of the LAP bioceramic sintered at 1250°C reached 2.51 g/cm3 and 15 Mpa, respectively. Finally, the bioceramic scaffolds with different sintering temperatures were co-cultured with rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells to detect biocompatibility. The results showed that the three groups of scaffolds enhanced cell proliferation, adhesion, and osteogenic capacity. In conclusion, the LAP bone scaffolds by VPP presented the potential for bone repair.

Potential human exposure and risks of incidental nanoparticles released during rotary dry cutting of ceramic tiles

Rotary dry cutting and rectifying of ceramic tiles are sources of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and nanoparticles (NPs). These activities are typically carried out inside industrial facilities during the manufacturing process, as well as outdoors and in residential indoor spaces during the installation phase, where mitigation measures are seldom implemented. This work aimed to understand the particle formation and release mechanisms, as well as particle properties (physical, chemical, and toxicological) and potential impacts on human health and the environment, for particles generated during ceramic tile rotary dry cutting operations. Aerosols were characterised in terms of particle number and mass concentrations, chemical composition, morphology and in vitro cytotoxicity. Two types of commercially available and representative tiles were tested in controlled chamber experiments: porous and non-porous ceramic body tiles (referred to in this work as A and B types, respectively). Results evidenced the release of fine particles and NPs during dry cutting of both materials, in comparable concentrations (20.000-45.000/cm3, 1-min average). However, the particle size distribution was significantly finer from A tiles (70% of the particle number concentration was nanosized (<100 nm)) in comparison to B tiles (<20%). While airborne particle chemical profiles were similar for both types of materials in the coarser size fractions (>0.6μm), in the smaller size fractions (<0.6μm) larger differences were observed. The chemical composition of airborne aerosols was consistent with that of the deposited dust. In vitro cytotoxicity responses evidenced statistically significant differences between exposure to aerosols from both types of tiles: cell viability was lower after exposure to aerosols from A tiles (50% at the original concentration) compared to those from B tiles, which exhibited high cell viability regardless of the aerosol concentration. Overall, results evidenced NP formation and release during rotary dry cutting of ceramic tiles, varying physical-chemical and cytotoxic profiles as a function of the material being processed, and highlight this activity as a potential health hazard in scenarios where prevention and mitigation measures are not implemented.

Application of LIBS and LA-ICP-MS analysis to Hellenistic tableware

Greek and Hellenistic painted vases have attracted scholars of classical archaeology for centuries, either because of the artistic value of the painted decorations or because of the depicted scenes of ancient everyday life. Due to the application of thin slips on the surface, different methods are used for the chemical characterisation of the slips and the body of the same vase. The slips are commonly analysed by X-ray microanalysis, offering point-by-point analysis of mostly major elements, while different tools, such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF), inductively coupled mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA), are used for bulk body analysis. This can cause difficulties in comparing the bulk composition and thus in determining the similarities and differences in the preparation process of the clay paste for the slips and bodies of an object. Given the artistic value of these objects, museum curators tend to be reluctant to provide samples for invasive characterisation. Micro-destructive laser ablation methods offer a robust solution to addressing both the relationships between ceramic body and surface treatment chemistry and destructive sampling. To provide a proof-of concept, we analysed slips and bodies of a small sample of Hellenistic fine wares from the Greek colony of Issa in modern Croatia with Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) and Laser ablation-ICP-MS. Results show remarkable diversity in the use of clay types and processing techniques.

Characterization of Ceramic Tile Bodies Prepared From Clays Collected from Four

Sierra Leone has high potentials for the setting-up of ceramic industry because of its huge virgin deposits of raw materials, chiefly clay, but lacks the technological know-how to utilize these materials to an economically sound level. Tile body offers a foundation for the performance of a glaze. The chemical and mineralogical composition of these clay bodies coupled with some physical properties, such a plasticity, bulk density, porosity, and water absorption, play significant role in determining the quality of the glazed surface.This is attested by certain glaze defects like pinholes, crazing and crawling on the glaze surface resulting mainly from bubble development within the body matrix during firing. The study aims at contributing to the promotion and use of appropriate ceramic building materials technology in Sierra Leone, by providing relevant research data to guide the production of quality ceramic products. The three key objectives, were to determine (1) the physical properties (2) chemical properties (3) mechanical properties of the clay samples investigated for their suitability in clay tile bodies production. Clay samples were collected from four sites in Sierra Leone namely Matankay (C-M) in the Western Rural District, Bo (C-B) in Bo District, Koribondo (C-K) in Pujehun District and Yele (C-Y) in Tonkolili District. Based on their plasticity index values, grain size distribution, bulk density, porosity and dry-fired shrinkage results obtained from this study, the four clay samples investigated are suitable for clay tile body production provided grog, frits, fluxes and other components are added proportionately and fired at temperatures above 1100oC to improve vitrification of the clay tile body during biscuit firing before application of the glaze.

Ion Beam-Induced Luminescence (IBIL) for Studying Manufacturing Conditions in Ceramics: An Application to Ceramic Body Tiles.

The first experimental results obtained by the ion beam-induced luminescence technique from the ceramic bodies of ancient tiles are reported in this work. The photon emission from the ceramic bodies is related to the starting minerals and the manufacturing conditions, particularly the firing temperature and cooling processes. Moreover, the results indicate that this non-destructive technique, performed under a helium-rich atmosphere instead of an in-vacuum setup and with acquisition times of only a few seconds, presents a promising alternative to traditional, often destructive, compositional characterisation methods. Additionally, by adding other ion beam-based techniques such as PIXE (Particle-Induced X-ray Emission) and PIGE (Particle-Induced Gamma-ray Emission), compositional information from light elements such as Na can also be inferred, helping to also identify the raw materials used.

Effect of La2O3-MgO ratio on the microstructure and properties of Si3N4 ceramics fabricated via digital light processing

Due to the low powder content characteristic of digital light processing in the preparation of ceramic green bodies, significant challenges arise in obtaining high-density, high-performance Si3N4 ceramic. Sintering aids exert a critical influence on the densification and properties of Si3N4 ceramics. To further improve the performance of 3D-printed Si3N4 ceramics, Si3N4 ceramics were fabricated using DLP technology combined with gas pressure sintering employing different ratios of La2O3-MgO as sintering aids. The ceramic slurries, microstructures, and ceramic performance were studied systematically. The results showed that increasing the proportion of· La2O3 powder enhanced the rheological and curing properties of Si3N4 ceramic slurries. Varying the La2O3-MgO ratio affected the composition of the liquid phase, leading to differences in the densification and grain growth of Si3N4 ceramics. The average grain size increased with higher ratios of La2O3-MgO, and reached a maximum value of 0.91 μm with a ratio of 9:1. With the increase of the La2O3-MgO ratio, the bulk density and shrinkage rate of the ceramics initially increased and then declined. In addition, the flexural strength and fracture toughness of the ceramics peaked at a ratio of 3:7 for La2O3-MgO, measuring 577 ± 16.28 MPa and 5.84 ± 0.17 MPa m1/2, respectively. These results demonstrate that high-performance Si3N4 ceramics can be effectively prepared using DLP technology by adapting the ratio of sintering additives.

Tailoring thermal expansion of β-Cu2V2O7 with improved mechanical properties by incorporation of Li+Fe3+

βCu2V2O7 is known to have a negative thermal expansion (NTE) in a wide temperature range but its ceramics bulk is very loose and porous. Herein, a strategy for sintering densely packed ceramics body with tailored coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) and improved mechanical properties is presented, where Cu2+ is partially substituted by the combination of Li+ and Fe3+ according to the formula (LiFe)0.5xCu2-xV2O7. The results show that the CTEs can be tuned from negative to near-zero while the elasticity modulus and compressive strength are 2 and 15 times higher for x = 1.0 than those of β-Cu2V2O7, respectively. The reduced NTE is attributed to the stiffening and bond angle lessening of V-O1-V linkages while the elevated mechanical properties are ascribed to the densely packed nature of the samples.

The effect of laser beam shaping on the structural and XEOL properties of laser-sintered LiBaPO4:Eu ceramics

In this work, we investigated the impact of laser beam shaping during laser sintering on the structural and XEOL properties of Eu-doped LiBaPO4 ceramic phosphors synthesized via the sol-gel method with PVA. Structural and optical properties were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-ray Absorption Near Edge Structure (XANES), X-ray fluorescence (XRF), and X-ray Excited Optical Luminescence (XEOL). XRD analysis revealed a primary trigonal phase (LiBaPO4, space group P31c) alongside a minor Ba3(PO4)2 phase. SEM images indicated a uniform grain size distribution, while XEOL spectra showed emission peaks corresponding to Eu3+ and Eu2+ ions, as well as defects from laser ablation. The Eu2+/Eu3ratio varied from the center to the edge of the ceramic body. Additionally, the laser beam shape contributed to a more homogeneous distribution of Eu ions in the center compared to the edge of the ceramic body.

Characterization and ceramic properties evaluation of Lombok clay

Purpose. This research aims to assess the characteristics of ceramics made from Lombok clay to optimize the quality of ceramic products in the Lombok region and surrounding areas. Methods. Methods used to characterize Lombok clay include measuring its chemical composition, loss on ignition, plasticity level and conducting mineral analysis. Additionally, the influence of sintering temperature on clay properties and shrinkage is studied. Findings. The main mineral component of Lombok clay is kaolin, which has a high level of plasticity and a water absorption rate of 7 ± 0.6%. The ceramic body produced from this clay is classified as semi-porcelain, making it suitable for medium-sized tableware manufactured using the rotating technique. Originality. This research highlights the effect of sintering temperature on the mineral transformation of Lombok clay and provides valuable information on its optimal applications. It fills a gap in the literature by providing comprehensive data on clay properties and optimal processing conditions that have previously been underexplored. Practical implications. Lombok clay is used predominantly by small-scale ceramic craftsmen in Lombok and Bali due to its relatively low market price. With the findings of this study, these craftsmen can enhance the quality of their products to semi-porcelain standards by adjusting the sintering temperature.

Role of iron-rich clays on sintering of porcelain stoneware tiles

Porcelain stoneware traditionally contains low Fe2O3 (<1 wt%), limiting research on iron's effects beyond coloration to date. However, recent changes in the supply chain induced a shift towards resource efficiency and circular economy, which led to body formulations with Fe2O3 up to 2.5 wt%. This study investigates the impact of iron-rich clays on the firing behaviour of porcelain stoneware, focusing on sintering processes, Fe speciation, and physical properties of the vitreous phase. Results show that red clays influence vitrification paths and maximum densification temperature, as well as composition and properties of the melt. This occurs not only because the relatively high iron percentage (up to 1.7 wt%), but for a set of factors, like the overall mineralogical and chemical composition of batches. Iron turns to be crucial for the stability of ceramic bodies at high temperatures, since Fe3+ can partially reduce to Fe2+, releasing gases and contributing to bloating phenomena.

Design and processing of SiOC/SiC/Si3N4/C ceramics with hierarchical porosity and non-oxide nanostructures

An integral study on the development and characterization of porous SiOC/SiC/Si3N4/C-based ceramic bodies was conducted using a less-explored approach, which is based on the direct consolidation of previously unstudied composite systems (methacryloxypropyl silsesquioxane/sucrose/prepyrolyzed powder), burn-out, and N2 pyrolysis (1300–1400 °C). Their textural, physicochemical, and microstructural properties depended on the initial system composition and pyrolysis temperature; the latter was also decisive in the materials' oxidative stability. At the highest pyrolysis temperature, SiC, mainly in the form of whiskers, and Si3N4 formed, the amount of SiOC decreased, Si2N2O crystallized, and nanocrystalline graphite-type carbon underwent graphitization. The final bodies exhibited macro- and mesopores, with micropores present only in those pyrolyzed at 1300 °C. This latter material presented the highest specific surface area, making it a potential candidate for catalysis in non-oxidizing environments at high temperatures or in oxidizing conditions at lower temperatures. Meanwhile, the material developed at 1400 °C offered high-temperature oxidative stability.

A green inorganic binder for material extrusion of ultra-low shrinkage and relatively high strength metakaolin ceramics at low sintering temperature

Ultra-low shrinkage and relatively high strength metakaolin ceramics printed by material extrusion were innovatively fabricated using inorganic aluminum dihydrogen phosphate (Al(H2PO4)3) as a binder and low sintering temperature. The optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electronic vernier caliper, three-point bending test, Archimedes method and X-ray diffraction (XRD) were used to measure and evaluate the surface morphology, microstructure, dimensional shrinkage, flexural strength, porosity and phase composition of the printed ceramics sintered at different temperatures. The results showed that when the mass ratio of metakaolin, Al(H2PO4)3 and deionized water was 17:6:2, the rheological characteristic of the purely green inorganic ceramic slurry was very suitable for material extrusion additive manufacturing, and the corresponding printed ceramic green bodies possessed high-quality formability. The ceramic samples sintered at 750 °C possessed the best whiteness, the lowest shrinkage (<2%), relatively high flexural strength (9.02 MPa). As the sintering temperature increased, Al(H2PO4)3 transformed to aluminum metaphosphate Al(PO3)3, and then decomposed into aluminum phosphate (AlPO4) and phosphorus pentoxide gas (P2O5), which caused pores and reduced strength, and alumina oxide (Al2O3) and silicon oxide (SiO2) in metakaolin gradually transformed to mullite and cristobalite with more stable structure and higher strength.

Microstructure and Dielectric Properties of Ceramic Bodies Containing Um Risha Syenite Doped with Coflux Oxides

Microstructure and Dielectric Properties of Ceramic Bodies Containing Um Risha Syenite Doped with Coflux Oxides

Hydroxyapatite-Based Natural Biopolymer Composite for Tissue Regeneration.

Hydroxyapatite (HAp) polymer composites have gained significant attention due to their applications in bone regeneration and tooth implants. This review examines the synthesis, properties, and applications of Hap, highlighting various manufacturing methods, including wet, dry, hydrothermal, and sol-gel processes. The properties of HAp are influenced by precursor materials and are commonly obtained from natural calcium-rich sources like eggshells, seashells, and fish scales. Composite materials, such as cellulose-hydroxyapatite and gelatin-hydroxyapatite, exhibit promising strength and biocompatibility for bone and tissue replacement. Metallic implants and scaffolds enhance stability, including well-known titanium-based and stainless steel-based implants and ceramic body implants. Biopolymers, like chitosan and alginate, combined with Hap, offer chemical stability and strength for tissue engineering. Collagen, fibrin, and gelatin play crucial roles in mimicking natural bone composition. Various synthesis methods like sol-gel, hydrothermal, and solution casting produce HAp crystals, with potential applications in bone repair and regeneration. Additionally, the use of biowaste materials, like eggshells and snails or seashells, not only supports sustainable HAp production but also reduces environmental impact. This review emphasizes the significance of understanding the properties of calcium-phosphate (Ca-P) compounds and processing methods for scaffold generation, highlighting novel characteristics and mechanisms of biomaterials in bone healing. Comparative studies of these methods in specific applications underscore the versatility and potential of HAp composites in biomedical engineering. Overall, HAp composites offer promising solutions for improving patient outcomes in bone replacement and tissue engineering and advancing medical practices.

Cold sintering of complex-shaped ceramic materials

The present work explores for the first time the production of ceramic bodies with complex shape through the cold sintering process. Inspired by previous works on spark plasma sintering, a spacer accessory was designed to act as a removable mold. This proof-of-concept was tested with four different ceramic systems: biogenic hydroxyapatite, zinc oxide, diatomaceous earth and construction/demolition waste materials. In all cases, the density is comparable to that obtained by cold sintering of simpler disks. Moreover, the microstructure of the complex-shaped materials is substantially homogeneous in the entire component. Some distortions can be detected when comparing the spacer and sample shape, their control and modeling being a key challenge for future works.

Combined studies on glazed ceramic bodies from the Middle and Neo-Elamite periods (1500–539 BCE)

The Elamites have assigned specialized names for different types of ceramics, signaling a specialized approach to ceramic production during the Middle and Neo-Elamite periods. They were pioneers in the use of glazed ceramics on the Iranian Plateau. This investigation focuses on the examination of 29 samples of glazed ceramic bodies originating from the Middle-Elamite (~ 1500–1100 BCE) and Neo-Elamite periods (~ 1100–539 BCE). The objective of this analysis, centered on the earliest instances of glazed ceramic bodies in Iran, is to obtain a comparative examination of the ceramic bodies. Such an approach can be useful for understanding the diverse production techniques used by Elamites in the Middle-Elamite and Neo-Elamite periods. To achieve this purpose, X-ray diffraction and petrography was used to determine the mineralogical characteristics of the ceramic bodies. Further insight into the chemical analysis of the samples was obtained through Electron Probe Micro-Analysis. The experimental data allowed the classification of the samples into four distinct groups. Particularly noteworthy in this categorization is the diversity observed in the Neo-Elamite samples. This diversity of Neo-Elamite ceramic bodies can be attributed to two primary factors. Firstly, the Neo-Elamite period witnessed a more varied array of techniques for producing glazed ceramic bodies compared to the Middle-Elamite period. Unlike the Middle-Elamite glazed ceramics, which were solely utilized for architectural decoration (glazed bricks) and were locally produced, the Neo-Elamite period marked the first instance of glazed ceramic vessels being used in the southwest of Iranian plateau, leading to a higher technological diversity. Secondly, the frequency of trade and importation of glazed ceramics from other regions to the southwest of Iran was notably higher during the Neo-Elamite period compared to the Middle-Elamite one. A notable distinction emerges in the Middle-Elam period, where exclusively quartz-based ceramic bodies were referenced, setting it apart from other sample types.

Effect of ZrO2 content on mechanical properties of SiC ceramics prepared based on digital light processing

Digital light processing (DLP) technology shows promise in addressing the challenges of preparing high-strength, precise, and complex SiC ceramic structural parts. However, the low strength of DLP-printed SiC ceramic parts remains a persistent issue. To address this, a nano-ZrO2 particle enhancement strategy is proposed. This study systematically investigates the effects of ZrO2 content on slurry viscosity, curing depth, microscopic morphology, and the mechanical properties of SiC ceramics. The results indicate that increasing the ZrO2 content raises the viscosity of the SiC slurry and decreases the curing depth, which can adversely affect the printing quality of SiC ceramic green bodies. However, a higher ZrO2 content significantly reduces pore defects in the sintered parts, improving densification and mechanical properties. This underscores the importance of optimizing ZrO2 content. The SiC sintered parts reinforced with ZrO2 particles exhibited outstanding properties, including a relative density of 91.1 ± 3.2 %, Vickers hardness of 996.4 ± 93.8 HV, and a flexural strength of 201.5 ± 11.4 MPa. This study provides a straightforward and effective method for producing high-strength SiC ceramics via DLP.

Preparation of high-strength ZrO2 ceramics by binder jetting additive manufacturing and liquid glass infiltration

Binder jetting (BJ) additive manufacturing of zirconia (ZrO2) ceramics presently encounters the challenges of achieving high relative density, dimensional precision, and superior mechanical properties of the prepared ceramics. This study extensively investigates the impacts of BJ processing parameters—namely, binder saturation, layer thickness, roller speed, and printing layout—on the dimensional accuracy, density, and mechanical strength of the resulting green parts. The identification of optimal BJ processing parameters is pivotal in the fabrication of ZrO2 ceramic green bodies with superior dimensional precision and mechanical strength. The study shows that while solid-phase sintering alone can result in a relative density of 50.99%–54.27 % for BJ-processed ZrO2 ceramics, glass infiltration after sintering substantially elevates the relative density and flexural strength. Specifically, infiltration at an optimal temperature of 800 °C increases the relative density of the sintered ceramic to 94.49 % and flexural strength to 76.48 ± 3.25 MPa, which represent a significant improvement of 40.22 % in density and a 35-fold increase in strength of the sintered ZrO2 ceramics, respectively. These findings underscore the potential of BJ printing and subsequent glass infiltration as a synergistic approach to achieve high-performance ZrO2 ceramics through additive manufacturing.

Comparison of Quantitative and Qualitative EDXRF Analysis for Provenance Study of Archaeological Ceramics.

The most common scientific analysis of archaeological ceramics aims to determine the raw material source and/or production technology. Scientists and archaeologists widely use XRF-based techniques as a tool in a provenance study. After conducting XRF analysis, the results are often analyzed using multivariate analysis in addition to interpretation and conclusions. Various multivariate techniques have already been applied in archaeological ceramics provenance studies to reveal different raw material sources, identify imported pieces, or determine different production recipes. This study aims to evaluate the results of multivariate analysis in the provenance study of ceramics that belong to three cultures that settled in the same area during various prehistoric periods. Portable energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (pEDXRF) was used to determine the elemental composition of the ceramic material. The ceramic material was prepared in two different ways. The ceramic body material was ground into powder, homogenized, and then pressed into tablets. After that, the same fragments are polished in suitable places. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were performed on the tablets and polished pieces. The results were subjected to both unsupervised and supervised multivariate analysis. Based on the results, it was concluded that qualitative analysis of the well-prepared shards' surface using EDXRF spectrometry could be utilized in provenance studies, even when the ceramic assemblages were made of similar raw materials.

Design and preparation of multiple, multidimensional and multiscale Ni/GC/CNTs/MLGs toughened phases

We introduce a novel methodology for fabricating multiple, multidimensional and multiscale toughened phases, utilizing resin as a binder in traditional ceramic green body. This approach involves exfoliating expanded graphite (EG) mixed in phenolic resin (PF) using three-roll milling (TRM), coupled with the pyrolysis of PF catalyzed by Ni(NO3)2. The effects of catalyst contents and heat-treated temperatures on the phase composition, morphology and microstructure of the resulted products were investigated. An in-situ growth mechanism of CNTs from PF catalyzed by Ni(NO3)2 was proposed. The findings revealed the successful derivation of zero-dimensional (0D) glassy carbon (GC) and 1D CNTs from PF pyrolysis, catalyzed by 0D Ni nanoparticles from Ni(NO3)2 via a vapor-solid mechanism. The 2D multilayer graphenes (MLGs) were effectively produced by exfoliating EG through TRM. We proposed two distinct pathways for integrating multiple Ni/GC/CNTs/MLGs toughened phases with different dimensions and scales into ceramic matrices, potentially enabling synergistic interactions for futural toughening ceramic.