Work

Simulation of ceramic tile sintering using a modified SOVS model under industrial production conditions

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study presents an enhanced Skorohod–Olevsky Viscous Sintering (SOVS) model for porcelain stoneware tiles, incorporating the effects of microstructural evolution and a semi-empirical formulation for temperature-dependent viscosity. The model is implemented using open-source tools (CodeAster and MFront) within a Finite Element Method (FEM) framework to simulate shrinkage and density evolution during firing, including the influence of pressing-induced defects. The proposed formulation is validated through a combination of laboratory-scale tests (dilatometric and thermogravimetric analyses) and full-scale industrial trials (hydraulic press and industrial kiln). Non-destructive techniques (X-ray absorption and coordinate-measuring machine) were used to assess thickness and density distribution maps, as well as dimensional stability. The results demonstrate excellent agreement between model predictions and experimental measurements, confirming the robustness of the model to accurately reproduce densification, shrinkage and geometrical distortions in a manufacturing environment.

Source: Ceramics International

DOI: 10.1016/j.ceramint.2026.03.287

Authors: J. Balaguer, J.M. Tiscar, J. Boix, A. Olmedilla, A. Moreno, F.A. Gilabert

Institutions: Universitat Jaume I, Instituto de Tecnología Cerámica, Ghent University

Language: English

Topic: Advanced ceramic materials synthesis

Subfield: Ceramics and Composites

Field: Materials Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Industry, innovation and infrastructure

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,830