Ceramic Machining and Joining

Ceramics, known for their high strength and heat resistance, pose unique challenges when it comes to shaping and assembling them. This field of study explores the methods used to machine ceramics into desired shapes (basic and advanced machining), achieve a desired surface quality (surface finishing), and securely join them together (joining methods and advanced joining methods). Understanding these techniques is crucial for unlocking the full potential of ceramics in various engineering applications.

Refractories and Glass

Glass and refractories, though both boasting impressive thermal properties, serve vastly different purposes. This field delves into the science and technology behind these crucial materials, encompassing glass formation and processing (covering raw materials, melting, forming, and annealing), properties of glass (mechanical, chemical, optical, and electrical), refractory selection (based on factors like temperature resistance and chemical compatibility), applications in different industries (glass for containers, windows, and fibers; refractories for furnaces and kilns), and even the intricate interaction between these materials during glass production (where refractories act as containers for molten glass). By understanding these various aspects, we can optimize the production and use of both glass and refractories for a wide range of applications.

Ceramic 3D Printing

Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, takes a revolutionary leap with ceramic materials. This burgeoning field explores the unique techniques used to create complex ceramic objects directly from digital designs. Key areas of exploration include various 3D printing processes for ceramics (covering methods like extrusion, binder jetting, and powder bed fusion), material considerations (focusing on ceramic powders and binder selection for printability and final properties), post-processing techniques (including debinding and sintering for achieving final strength and functionality), design optimization for 3D printing (considering factors like build limitations and support structures), and the vast applications of 3D printed ceramics (encompassing fields like aerospace, healthcare, and microfluidics). By unlocking the potential of 3D printing for ceramics, we can manufacture complex parts with superior properties, ushering in a new era of design and functionality.

Ceramic Membranes

These engineered marvels act as microscopic sieves, separating liquids, gases, and even nanoparticles with exceptional precision. Their unique properties, encompassing pore size, permeability, and chemical stability, hold immense potential for purifying water, separating valuable biomolecules, and revolutionizing filtration processes across various industries.

Ceramic Composites

Imagine a powerful alliance between ceramics and other materials like polymers or metals. Ceramic composites are the embodiment of this union, offering unparalleled strength, lightweight design, and the ability to withstand scorching temperatures. Research delves into different reinforcement types and processing methods to create the perfect composite for demanding applications, such as jet engine components, spacecraft structures, and next-generation medical implants.

Traditional Ceramics

These age-old materials are constantly evolving. From the bricks in our buildings to the artistic pottery adorning our shelves, traditional ceramics encompass a vast realm. Research in this field explores innovative raw materials, efficient forming techniques, and even the possibility of imbuing these materials with self-cleaning or self-healing properties. The aim is to ensure these timeless materials remain relevant in the future, offering both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

High-Temperature Coatings

Imagine a protective shield that thrives in extreme heat, corrosion, and wear. High-temperature coatings, formulated from specially designed ceramics, provide this very shield. Research focuses on different coating types and deposition techniques to safeguard critical components in jet engines, power plants, and industrial processes. The future holds promise for intelligent coatings that can self-heal or sense damage, pushing the boundaries of protection and operational efficiency.

Electroceramics

These remarkable ceramics possess unique electrical properties, making them the workhorses of countless electronic devices. From the tiny capacitors in your smartphone to the high-voltage insulators in power grids, electroceramics play a vital role. Research delves into novel materials with even higher conductivity, paving the way for faster data transmission and more efficient energy storage solutions, shaping the future of electronics and energy technologies.