Abstract
Structure of alumina green body was examined by a novel optical method to discuss the deformation mechanism during sintering for alumina compacts prepared by slip casting method. The novel method applied in this study is based on polarized light microscopy, with which even the minor particle orientation can be detected easily in the green body made by slip casting. The alumina compact was fabricated by slip casting in gypsum molds. Alumina powder particles have two forms, i.e., elongated and spherical shapes. Degree of particle orientation was evaluated from the retardation in green body relation to that of single crystal. The green body was sintered at 1673 to 1873K, and the deformation in sintering was discussed in terms of the density and degree of particle orientation.
