FDTD modeling of realistic microwave sintering experiments

Computer modeling and numerical simulation provide a valuable tool for designing guidelines towards a successful routine experimentation with microwave sintering of ceramics. It is also expected that continued efforts in numerical simulation will lead to establishing procedures for the scale up and commercial utilization of this new technology. We utilize the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) technique to model various geometric arrangements and material compatibility aspects in sintering ceramics in multimode microwave cavities. Simultaneous sintering of multiple samples is also simulated, and the role of using process stimulus such as SiC rods or sheets on improving the uniformity of the microwave sintering process are also simulated. To help experimentally validate the obtained results, the FDTD electromagnetic power deposition results were combined with a 3D heat transfer program to calculate the temperature distribution in the samples and surrounding insulation. Results from the FDTD and finite-difference codes as well as comparisons with experimental measurements of sintering experiments performed in multimode microwave cavities are presented.