A strategy for consolidating ceramics along the surface of particles by shock wave sintering

Abstract

Traditional ceramic sintering methods face challenges in controlling grain size and maintaining desired material properties. Recent techniques like plasma activated sintering and spark plasma sintering offer improved grain size control but suffer from second phase formation and equipment limitations. In this study, we explore explosive shock wave sintering as a novel approach to rapidly sinter ceramic powders while preserving their original properties. Drawing parallels with shock wave compaction in porous materials, we propose that shock waves generated by explosive loading can induce rapid, inhomogeneous thermal fields on ceramic particle surfaces, inhibiting grain growth. The shock wave sintering of YSZ ceramic powders is investigated using theoretical models, discrete element simulations, and experimental analysis. Our findings reveal novel melting bonding, friction bonding and jet bonding mechanisms for ceramic interfacial sintering, providing valuable insights for the development of ceramics with enhanced control over grain size and interfacial structure.