Binder removal from injection molded zirconia ceramics

Binder removal characteristics of injection molded zirconia (ZrO2) ceramics in the form of one-closed end tubes were studied by thermal analysis methods such as thermogravimetry and calorimetry. Only a thermal treatment for the binder removal from the molded parts with thin walls is not suitable because of deformation resulted from high weight loss rates. Using a two-stage wicking-thermal treatment process, it is possible to produce parts having no defects. The process reduced time necessary for eliminating organics of fine-grained zirconia from several days to hours. (orig.)