Utilization of a Phosphate Ester as a Dispersant for SiAlON Based Ceramics

Abstract

Aqueous dispersions of SiAlON forming powders (Si3N4, AlN and Y2O3) were obtained. Dispersibility of powders was found to be improved by addition of sodium tripolyphosphate. Stable aqueous suspensions of SiAlON forming powders were prepared by using a phosphate ester, sodium tripolyphosphate (STPP, Na5P3O10). Effect of the STPP on rheological properties of the powder mixture was investigated by zeta potential measurements, sedimentation and milling studies. It has been shown that addition of the STPP to the aqueous SiAlON forming powder mixture improves the dispersion behavior significantly. These results suggest that STPP can be utilized as a dispersant in such ceramic systems.