Microstructural evolution and macroscopic behaviour during solid state sintering

Abstract

Sintering is often measured by compact density, which increases owing to shrinkage. Early evidence of sintering is seen in the form of bond growth at particle contacts, even prior to shrinkage. In this study, a microstructure–strength–densification model is established and linked to the underlying capillary stress that induces densification, known as the sintering stress. Bronze powder compact sintering was studied to illustrate neck growth effects on compact strength and shrinkage. Consistent agreement was observed between the predictions and experiments for the com-pact strength evolution during sintering. Compact strength reaches a peak before significant shrinkage.