Intelligent processing of materials (IPM) is the integration of: (1) on-line sensors of materials conditions or features; (2) sensors and controllers of process conditions which determine final desired material properties; and, (3) models which relate process conditions to desired properties. IPM research in the Ceramics Division is focused on the measurement of characteristics of powders and slurries. Through the measurement of particular characteristics and the understanding of how those characteristics relate to final properties, improved process control can be achieved.

Projects in this area are closely coupled with industrial and academic partners' research in the development of processes, such as the application of research techniques to commercial practice. NIST research addresses both the development of the measurement technique and the understanding of the phenomena on which the technique is based.

Two projects are underway:

1. The measurement of dispersion homogeneity in injection molding compounds by the use of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is conducted in cooperation with industry to determine the role of processing parameters and binder and dispersion chemistry; and,

2. Electroacoustic measurement to determine loading and size distribution of powders in dense slurries.

Projects

Injection Molding of Ceramics
Analysis of Ceramic Powder
Electroacoustic Characterization of Ceramic Powder Slurries
Environmental Stability of Infrastructural Cements

For further information on IPM of ceramic materials, contact S. G. Malghan at (301) 975-6101 or e-mail malghan@micf.nist.gov