Processing, microstructure, mechanical properties of Si3N4 obtained by slip casting and pressureless sintering

The slip casting and subsequent pressureless sintering route has been revealed as a powerful method to obtain a high-density silicon nitride. The optimisation of the slip casting preparation and of the sintering conditions has been investigated. The relation between microstructure, mechanical properties and thermal shock behaviour of Si3N4 is also outlined. Finally, this process is successfully employed to produce a Si3N4 material with interesting properties in regard to those obtained by a hot pressing process.