Rheological and microstructural characterization of titania pastes for additive manufacturing using polymeric ceramic precursor as organic and inorganic binder

Author(s)

Barbosa, Anderson Luis ; Romano, Roberto Cesar de Oliveira ; Bernardes, Andre Avancini ; Gouvea, Douglas

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: CERAMICS INTERNATIONAL; v. 51, n. 17, p. 8-pg., 2025-07-01.

Abstract

Additive manufacturing (AM) is an innovative fabrication method that adds materials to build pieces, and it allows new ways to fabricate ceramic components with more complex and varied geometries. Among AM techniques, extrusion-based methods require carefully designed pastes with controlled rheological properties. This study develops and characterizes titania pastes incorporating a polymeric precursor as both a rheological modifier and a solid binder, optimizing their printability and post-processing behavior. Four different formulations were evaluated by varying composition and solid load, assessing their rheology, printability, and microstructural properties after calcination. The polymeric precursor, synthesized via the Pechini method, acted as an organic binder during drying and an inorganic binder after calcination, maintaining phase composition, and changing surface and grain boundary area, influencing mechanical properties. The results demonstrate that the polymeric precursor improves the processability of the paste, preserving the fidelity of the printing and allowing the obtaining of structures that maintain structural integrity. This approach introduces new opportunities for ceramic 3D printing, particularly in catalytic applications where tailored porosity and phase stability are critical. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 23/14214-4 - Development of structured catalysts for the photocatalytic synthesis of ammonia
• Grantee: Bruno Ramos
• Support Opportunities: Research Program on Global Climate Change - Regular Grants
• FAPESP's process: 20/15230-5 - Research Centre for Greenhouse Gas Innovation - RCG2I
• Grantee: Julio Romano Meneghini
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Research Centers in Engineering Program