Ceramic Processing

The book title succinctly describes its contents. Processing of ceramics on an industrial scale has always come with compromises, and this publication will enlighten the reader as to why.

Original ceramic processing in ancient times was performed mainly on an individual basis to provide simple articles such as containing vessels. Enlarging this process to manufacture complex shapes, numerous applications and repeatability is no easy task. Multiply fields of study are required to be understood for example, geology, chemistry, physics, thermodynamics, phase changes all these and more are present within ceramic processing and manufacture.

It is these issues which the author provides the reader with. A detailed description of the most commonly occurring techniques, potential problems and the science behind why a particular path has been taken.

This book allows the reader to gain specific information on a desired topic very quickly. All the chapters are easily identified via the titles and a list of their respective contents. Individual reference material can be very quickly sourced.

The overall amount of information is quite large considering the size of the publication. Most chapters contain a thorough explanation process which some lay readers may find initially a little daunting. There is a fair amount of scientific/mathematical formula, however the explanations and descriptive processes used to guide the reader are excellent.

Traditional and modern ceramic processing procedures are covered in detail. A surprise addition was the first chapter 'manufacturing excellence', this introduces the idea that newer manufacturing processes such as just in time, six sigma, Kanban systems can be used within ceramic manufacture. Having been within the industry for over thirty years I'm aware that these systems have been tried. The author does offer a detailed appraisal as to which particular system would suit which product base. For traditional ceramic manufacture for example. tableware these systems would be used sparingly if at all. In a high-volume low variety manufacture for example tile production these systems can and do have considerable merit.

On a personal note I found chapter nine 'the miniaturization of complex ceramics' very informative. Having some experience in ceramic injection moulding I found the newer processes of 3D printing, laser sintering and atomic layer deposition a very welcome addition to what methods are currently available.

In conclusion this book is a valuable reference source and excellent publication. It's well written, well presented and informative. It will be beneficial to students or professionals looking for information on ceramic processing.

Ian Richards CEnv. RSci. BSc(Hons). AMIMMM

Materials World