Work

Advanced sintering techniques for electrochemical and catalytic applications. Part 1: Radiation-thermal, spark plasma, flash, and microwave sintering

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: In the contemporary context of hydrogen energy, a pivotal undertaking pertains to the development of effective methodologies for the fabrication of solid oxide fuel cells and electrolyzers, permselective membranes, catalysts for the transformation of fuel into syngas and hydrogen, and other devices. These approaches necessitate the control of textural, morphological, and transport properties of the materials, as well as chemical and thermomechanical stability. A variety of advanced sintering techniques are employed in the fabrication of functional ceramics for a range of applications, including electrochemical and catalytic processes. These techniques, such as radiation-thermal sintering, microwave sintering, and spark-plasma sintering, among others, are utilized to achieve the desired properties of the ceramics. This review focuses on the application of these sintering techniques in the fabrication of solid oxide fuel cells, permselective membranes, and catalysts. The fundamental principles and major features of each technique are examined, with a predominant emphasis on their practical application. These techniques are based on thermal heating in combination with other forms of excitation, including the effects of electron beam or electromagnetic irradiation. It has been demonstrated that specific features of these techniques, including the generation of defects, stimulated diffusion, and various non-thermal effects, permit a significant decrease in processing temperature and duration when compared to conventional sintering in a furnace. It has been demonstrated that these techniques are applicable to a wide range of ceramic, cermet, and other materials. The employment of advanced sintering techniques holds great promise for the device fabrication.

Source: Journal of URFU (URFU)

DOI: 10.15826/chimtech.10504