Field assisted sintering technology update-Part I

Making net-shape components with sub-micron grain microstructures presents significant challenges. Typical steps involved in making these components using powder materials include green compaction, sintering at elevated temperatures, and hot pressing to improve density. Sintering time and temperature must be significantly reduced to maintain sub-micron grain materials in the compacted and sintered product. These challenges have been addressed with the introduction of field assisted sintering technology (FAST) .