Processing of powders to ceramic components uses a large number of interim additives such as solvents, binders, plasticizers, dispersants, lubricants, and coagulating agents. The majority of these processing additives are synthetically prepared from petroleum-based chemicals. Sustainable development necessitates the replacement of these synthetically prepared additives with naturally renewable materials. The thesis explores the use of natural rubber latex as a binder, gelling agent, and pore stabilizer for the preparation of dense and porous alumina ceramics. Powder pressing, tape casting, slip casting, and freeze-gel casting processes have been established for the preparation of dense and porous alumina ceramics using natural rubber latex binder for the first time.
Dr. K. Prabhakaran
Dr. Arun Kumar (LPSC)