Theoretical Models for Binder Burnout

The kinetics of binder burnout, from a ceramic green body, are considered for the case of an "unzipping" binder which decomposes to produce a volatile monomer. The process is considered to fail if the concentration of monomer in the green body exceeds that in equilibrium with vapor at 1 atm (?10⁵ Pa), when an internal bubble would be expected to form. Steady-state diffusional calculations and computer simulations explore the size and temperature dependence of the process and are in agreement. The model suggests that it is not feasible to burn out a large flat piece greater than about 3 mm thick, without going to very long times of burnout. The kinetics are significantly improved if porosity develops in the piece during the early stages of decomposition, as opposed to the retreat of the binder into the piece on a uniform front.