ABSTRACT
The densification process of pressure densified barium titanate sheets and the residual stress therein were calculated using a finite element analysis based on the expansion of the Helmholtz energy in the elastic strains. A simple description of the tractions as well as of the kinetic equations was used. In the analysis the volume elements were considered to be able to shrink freely. After removing the applied loading, the residual stress was calculated by restoring the structural integrity of the material. The model yields a significantly less densified rim at the edge of the sheets, as was observed experimentally. The inclusion of shear tractions modifies the residual stress situation qualitatively. Therefore, further attention should be given to the experimental description of the tractions applied to the sintering material.
