ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses procedures for the creation of shape and form from assemblies of ceramic particles by injection molding. Injection molding machines designed for polymer molding are usually employed with some attention to wear resistance on the barrel and screw and with a low compression ratio. In addition to the adsorption forces at ceramic-polymer interfaces, electrostatic forces arising from charge transfer may arise, and therefore electrokinetic phenomena may be present in ceramic suspensions as with aqueous suspensions. Paul and Barlow suggest that the acid-base behavior may also influence the miscibility of polymers. Since organic vehicles for the plastic forming of ceramics are frequently polymer blends containing various oils, plasticizers, and waxes, factors affecting their miscibility are significant. The fabrication of thin-walled ceramic bodies such as electronic substrates also relies on the development of substantial mechanical strength in the prefired state, and the binder is often selected for its adhesive properties rather than its pyrolytic characteristics.
