Electroconsolidation Method for Fabrication of Fine-Dispersed High-Density Ceramics

Abstract

The paper presents concept and working principle of the electroconsolidation device, which belong to a group of Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) or Field Activated Sintering Techniques (FAST). Its distinguishing characteristics is the application of the alternating current of high intensity directly to the mould without any sort of pulse generator. Heating process is performed in vacuum, but under uniaxial mechanical pressure applied to the specimen. Some issues concerning the current passing through the powders and subsequent densification with related porosity, strength and hardness of the sintered structures were discussed. It was found that apart from the simplified construction, the high heating rates, short holding time and relatively low sintering temperatures were resource saving and contributed to the greener manufacturing of advanced nanostructural composites.