No abstract

Since there are no net-shape techniques for complex parts made of mesophase carbon available yet, this work focuses on a powder injection moulding (PIM) approach. The single biggest problem to overcome here is the overlap of debindering and pyrolysis/sintering of mesocarbon when using conventional binders, causing high porosity and cracks. Water-based binders with agar as gelling agent can avoid this problem effectively by removing the binder in an optimized drying step. The subsequent sintering can then be carried out at high heating rates, leading to better densification and good mechanical properties. Furthermore, the dependency of the rheological properties of the water-based feedstock on its water content is investigated.