Co-Dispersion Behavior of ZrB2–SiC–B4C–C Powders with Polyethyleneimine

The aqueous dispersion behavior of ZrB 2, SiC powders with B 4C and C as sintering aids was investigated. Well co-dispersed suspension can be obtained in acidic solutions in presence of polyethyleneimine (PEI). The adsorption of PEI on the powder surface was measured by thermal gravimetric (TG) analysis. Rheological measurements displayed the effect of dispersant on the flow behavior of as-prepared slurries. An optimum condition was obtained with 1 wt % PEI. The viscosity of 40 vol % ZrB 2–SiC–B 4C–C (ZSBC) suspension at 100 s ？1 was as low as 0.74 Pa·s, which was suitable for aqueous processing.