Research and Development of Novel Materials by Plasma Discharge Sintering Process

Abstract

Plasma discharge sintering process is a novel consolidation method that combines a very short time at high temperature with pressure application in a plasma environment. The application of instantaneous pulsed electric power activates and purifies the particle surfaces. This effect contributes to enhanced particle sinterability. The powder particles are then rapidly resistance heated with pressure application. The effect of this combination of mechanical pressure, electrical field, and plasma activation in this process is full densification of difficult-to-sinter materials with minimum microstructural changes. In this paper, principle of plasma discharge sintering process and the latest investigations of development of novel materials, such as nano-structured or non-equilibrium materials, intermetallics and composites, are reviewed.