The Elastic Behavior of Partially-Sintered Materials

Abstract

AbstractA simple model is presented for the elastic behavior of a powder compact that has undergone small amounts of sintering. The analysis shows that the elastic constants are sensitive to small changes in the interparticle contact areas. The elastic constants are also shown to be dependent on factors relating to the structure of the powder compact, such as the particle coordination number. It is concluded that such elastic constant measurements are a valuable tool in studying adhesion within compacts, the mechanisms involved in the initial stages of sintering and the characterization of powders.