Rheological properties of slurries prepared using a planetary mixer

Preparation of ceramic slurries is an important process in ceramic colloidal processing. We investigated the rheological properties of slurries prepared using a planetary mixer. Planetary mixing for a short time enhanced the fluidity of the slurry. With longer-term planetary mixing, however, a film was observed on the surface of the slurry similar to the Ramsden phenomenon, which was due to the increases in temperature of the slurry by mixing. Slurries with this surface film showed high viscosity. A combination of planetary mixing for a very short time and ball milling was useful to enhance the fluidity of slurries.