Effect of Fe2O3 on properties and densification of 8YSZ by pulsed current activated sintering

Abstract

Dense 8YSZ was sintered by pulsed current activated sintering (PCAS) within 1 minute from 8YSZ nanopowder prepared by a co-precipitation method. This sintering process was accomplished under the combined effects of a pulsed current and mechanical pressure. Highly dense 8YSZ was produced with a relative density as high as 96.5% under the simultaneous application of a 80 MPa of pressure and a pulsed current. The effects of an addition of Fe2O3 on the sintering behavior and ionic conductivities of the 8YSZ were also investigated.