A simple preparation method and the rheological properties of high solid loading slurries for ceramic vat polymerization

Originally used for additive manufacturing of polymer parts, the vat polymerization process was modified to fabricate ceramic parts by filling the resin with ceramic powder. In this study, we present the development of a ceramic slurry for additive manufacturing of ceramics via the vat polymerization process. With the shorter preparation time, the developed ceramic slurry containing 45 vol% solid loading exhibits considerable stability (minimal sedimentation observed over seven days) and low viscosity (<3 Pa s) that can be spread easily with a blade. We demonstrate the printability of the developed slurry by printing various geometries alumina and zirconia. The capability of the slurry was further extended to the printing of alumina platelets to mimic a nature-inspired nacre-like structure. In conclusion, we demonstrated a way to quickly prepare UV-curable ceramic slurry and future work encompasses research on strengthening of the printed ceramics.