INFLUENCE OF PARTICLE SIZE AND FURNACE ATMOSPHERE ON THE SINTERING OF POWDER FOR TILES PRODUCTION

The effect of both particle size and furnace atmosphere on the sintering of ceramic powder used in the production of tiles was
studied. The investigation was performed on two powders having different grain sizes: 63 – 90 μm and 400 – 500 μm. The
samples were compacted and sintered at different experimental conditions; steady air and flowing air, at temperatures
۴۰۰ – ۶۰۰ °C, and flowing oxygen, at temperatures 400 – 600 °C, 600 – 800 °C and 800 – 1000 °C. In order to investigate
particle size and furnace atmosphere influence, the following characteristics of samples were measured: quantity and
composition of amorphous phase, porosity, relative density, shrinkage and compressive strength. The results indicate
negligible influence of atmosphere, in comparison with the influence of the initial particle size.