Homogeneous functional ceramic components through electrophoretic deposition from stable colloidal suspensions - II. Beta-alumina and concepts for industrial production

Electrophoretic deposition of deagglomerated fine stable powder suspensions in a 'cleansed & closed' deposition apparatus has been shown to be a successful method to shape beta-alumina functional ceramic tubes. The novel method increased the strength and surface smoothness significantly compared to dry pressing. Introduction of appropriate dispersants helped to avoid drawbacks connected with those electrophoretic deposition methods hitherto tested for production of beta-alumina ceramics. A new multi-tube deposition apparatus was designed and tested. It could make electrophoretic deposition become competitive as an industrial-scale manufacturing method. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Limited. All rights reserved.