Powder modification mechanism, effects of binder compositions on the thermal behavior, and the mechanical properties of the ceramic injection molded system

Abstract In this study, a systematic research has been conducted into the powder modification mechanism, the effects of binder compositions on the thermal behavior, and the mechanical properties of the ceramic injection molded system. SA is adopted to modify the as-received ceramic powder for the ceramic injection molding system. The TGA results demonstrate that the mass loss in SA occurs at 200–300 °C while the loss in SA-modified zirconia is mainly located at 300–400 °C, which is believed that SA reacts with zirconia through an esterification reaction, causing the exothermic peak to shift to a higher temperature. TGA analysis at different locations on the green bodies can effectively evaluate the CIM binder segregation and it is observed that, for feedstock B30, there are four data points in the defined sensitivity range, which could be proved to be the most homogeneous. And it has the best mechanical performance, with three-point flexural strength of 825.7 MPa and the relative density of 98.8%. Feedstock B60 has the maximum pores and the minimum mechanical strength, with the relative density of 95.1% and the three-point flexural strength of 541.4 MPa. The Weibull modulus for Feedstock B30 is greater than 10, signifying the most concentrated strength distribution, which further verifies that feedstock B30 is the most homogeneous formula.