Laminated and Functionally Graded Ceramics by Electrophoretic Deposition

Electrophoresis is the effect that when an electric field is applied to a suspension of a powder in a liquid, the powder particles move under influence of this field. Frequently the powder particles also deposit at one of the electrodes. The form of the electrode determines the form of the deposit, hence shaping is possible. The current insights into the science and technology of electrophoretic deposition (EPD) will be summarized. EPD is well suited for shaping layered microstructures (laminates), by simply changing repeatedly between two or more suspensions during deposition. Tubular laminates consisting of silicon carbide layers and crack deflecting graphite interlayers have been produced. These tubes demonstrate an enhanced fracture energy and a gradual mode of failure. Another area of advanced ceramics where the use of EPD makes sense are functionally graded materials (FGM) in which one tries to combine in one component high hardness and high toughness. EPD allows the formation of FGM by depositing from a powder suspension to which a second suspension is continuously added during the process. An example will be shown of a graded WC-Co hardmetal.