Ceramic powder processing paste formation

These relate mainly to the degree of purity of the powders and the nature of the particles surface. Purity depends on the source of the raw materials and the transformation processes that give rise to impurities (iron, heavy metals, salts, carbon, etc.). It will determine to a large extent the sintering reactivity, with the possible formation of a second intergranular phase and the final properties of the piece (mechanical, chemical, electric, etc.). The surface properties of the particles determine the mechanisms of species adsorption and dissolution. They will control the dispersion properties, homogenity and the rheological behavior of the suspensions and ceramic pastes (section 5.3). 

---