Category: Applications

Metallographic polishing is a process in materials science and engineering, ensuring the preparation of metal samples for microscopic examination. The goal is to produce a flat, scratch-free surface that reveals the true microstructure of the material. Traditionally, various abrasive materials and polishing techniques have been employed. Colloidal silica is commonly used for its dispersion ability.

The advancements explored here are poised to significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of metallographic analysis across diverse applications.
They are based on the comparative performance of our Baikalox® fine alumina with high specific surface area products versus colloidal silica in finishing polishing. Our solutions have demonstrated more efficient polishing action and significant advantages for aluminum alloys and copper samples.

Comparative Analysis: superior performance of Baikalox® Fine Alumina for Aluminum and Copper Alloys

Baikalox® products with higher specific surface area and uniform particle size offer a compelling alternative to traditional colloidal silica suspensions in terms of :

1. Surface Finish Quality

High-resolution SEM images allowed for detailed observation of surface topography, revealing the absence of scratches, pits, and orange peel effects with Baikalox® polishing.

• Scratch-free: The uniform particle size and high specific surface area of the Baikalox® alumina product contributed to a better consistent and controlled material removal than colloidal silica, preserving the integrity of the microstructure for accurate analysis.
• Orange Peel Effect-free: The “orange peel effect” is a common challenge encountered with colloidal silica, where uneven polishing creates a wavy surface reminiscent of an orange peel. Baikalox®, with its higher polishing efficiency, effectively eliminates this issue, leading to a superior flatness and surface finish

2. Time Reduction

The use of fine alumina significantly reduced the overall polishing time thanks to its enhanced abrasive action, which facilitates faster material removal without compromising surface quality.

3. Ease of Cleaning

Colloidal silica suspensions can be challenging to clean from polished surfaces. The alumina particles were less prone to embedding in the sample surface, reducing the need for extensive cleaning procedures, promoting faster sample turnaround times and minimizing the risk of residual contamination.

Polishing Techniques

The metallographic preparation process typically involves several stages, including sectioning, mounting, grinding, and polishing. Polishing is usually performed in two stages: coarse polishing and fine or finishing polishing. Finishing polishing aims to remove the damage induced by the rough polishing stage and produce a mirror-like surface suitable for microscopic examination.

These evaluations were conducted on soft metals using mechanical polishing. This process generally involves the use of progressively finer abrasives following an initial diamond grinding stage.

Applications of Metallographic Polishing

Metallographic polishing is essential across various industries and research fields that require precise material characterization and analysis.
These applications include quality control in manufacturing, failure analysis in engineering, and fundamental materials research in academia suh as :

• In the aerospace and automotive industries, polished metal samples are examined to ensure the integrity and performance of critical components.
• In electronics and semiconductor manufacturing, metallographic analysis aids in the development of advanced materials and the assessment of microstructural properties.
• The biomedical field also benefits from metallographic polishing, particularly in the development and quality control of metallic implants and devices.
• In the watch industry: High-precision polishing is crucial for ensuring the quality and aesthetic appeal of metal components in watches, contributing to both their durability and visual appeal.

This comparative analysis clearly demonstrate Baikalox® alumina higher performance for final polishing of aluminum and copper alloys than colloifal silica. This advancement promises to enhance the quality and precision of metallographic preparations, driving innovation and reliability in these fields and beyond.

For tailored advice on selecting the appropriate Baikalox® product to suit your needs, contact us. Our team of experts is ready to guide you in choosing the best solution for achieving the highest quality surface finishes.

Learn more on our polishing solutions

The quality and performance of our powders are widely recognized in various ceramic applications. A comprehensive PhD thesis titled “Printability of Ceramic Pastes by Robocasting: Application in Solid and Multi-Component Materials” has been completed by Mathilde Maillard in 2022.

The aim of the project was to develop single- and multi-material ceramic parts (zirconia and alumina) with the least possible consumption of materials and energy. For this reason, additive manufacturing but also microwave heating sintering for consolidation and post-drying were selected.

This research has been instrumental in achieving significant progress in this technique and demonstrating how Baikowski® powders for 3D printing applications contribute to the production of complex geometries and robust ceramic structures.

More information available on 3D printing advanced material  in our dedicated white paper

Robocasting characteristics

Robocasting, aslo entitled Direct Ink Writing, was chosen over other 3D printing methods because of its potential to produce gradient multi-materials. This technique involves extrusion-based additive manufacturing, allowing for precise layering of ceramic materials that make intricate shapes and customized components possible.

The project aimed at optimizing the composition and processing parameters of ceramic pastes to achieve superior print quality and mechanical properties.

Baikowski® High Purity Alumina and Zirconia Powders

The spray-dried powders were delivered without binder and with a small particle size in order to produce homogeneous inks with suitable rheological characteristics for extrusion.

Baikalox® High Purity Alumina WA15

1. • Specific Surface Area: 23.6 m²/g
   • Particle Size Distribution (after deagglomeration):
     • D10 = 0.07 µm
     • D50 = 0.09 µm
     • D90 = 0.12 µm
   • Purity: Very low impurity levels, ranging from 0.005% to 0.084%

Baikalox® Zirconia Yttria 3 mol% BSZ3Y

1. 1. • Specific Surface Area: 14.1 m²/g
      • Particle Size Distribution (after deagglomeration):
      • D10 = 0.09 µm
      • D50 = 0.15 µm
      • D90 = 0.28 µm

Advantages of our 4N high purity powders with Robocasting Process

Printability and Rheological Properties: The powders demonstrated excellent dispersion and stability in the ceramic pastes. The rheological properties of these pastes were meticulously adjusted to ensure smooth and continuous extrusion during the robocasting process.
The study showed that by optimizing the solid loading and binder content, the desired viscosity and thixotropy were achieved, enabling compliant  shapes of the printed structures.

Structural Integrity and Mechanical Properties: One of the significant achievements of the study was the successful production of dense and mechanically robust ceramic parts. The ceramic structures exhibited high compressive strength and minimal shrinkage upon sintering.

Complex Geometries and Surface Finish: The ability to produce complex geometries with fine details is a critical requirement in additive manufacturing that Baikowski® powders have helped with.
Thanks to the optimized particle size distribution and spherical morphology of the powders, the surface finish of the printed parts was notably smooth, with minimal layer lines.
This characteristic is particularly beneficial for applications requiring precise dimensional tolerances and superior surface quality.

Ceramic 3D Printing Possible Applications With Baikowski® Powders

The ceramic quality achieved in this project with the robocasting method opens new avenues for Baikowski® powders where precision and performance are critical, such as:

Aerospace and Defense: The high strength and thermal stability of ceramic parts produced with our powders can withstand harsh conditions and maintain structural integrity in high-stress environments, including critical structural applications.

Biomedical Devices: The biocompatibility and excellent mechanical properties of the ceramics obtained open new avenues in the biomedical field. Custom implants and scaffolds with complex geometries can be produced. The smooth surface finish and high precision are particularly advantageous for reducing wear and enhancing the longevity of implants.

Electronics and Energy: Our powders enable the manufacture of ceramic parts with precise shapes and dimensions, insulating properties and high thermal stability, critical for electronic devices and energy storage systems.

The study underscores the significant advancements in robocasting 3D printing achievable with Baikowski® powders. The superior printability, structural integrity, and ability to create complex geometries position these powders as a valuable resource in various high-performance applications.

As additive manufacturing continues to evolve, Baikowski® remains at the forefront, driving innovation and expanding the possibilities in ceramic fabrication.

See all  the details in the PhD thesis (only in French)

💡Discover advanced 3D printing powders and slurries that improve the precision and customization of ceramic parts 💡

Uncover the future of additive manufacturing with our in-depth white paper on ceramic 3D printing and learn about the importance of advanced materials such as high purity alumina, zirconia, ZTA, and spinel solutions in enhancing compatibility with different printing processes (fusion and non fusion-based methods)

Get an insight into Baikowski®’s tailored solutions designed to enable precision and customization of your ceramic parts, along with comprehensive information about ceramic 3D printing principles, applications, main technologies, and current advantages and limitations.

Witness stereolithography parts crafted using our premium alumina powders and slurries that are pushing boundaries, allowing for ceramics with intricate detailing high density and strength in various industries such as the industrial, energy, electronics sectors and more.

Then, explore scientific publications showcasing the innovative uses of our products.

 

Discover all our White Papers

💡 Eager to learn how high purity alumina (HPA) solutions can help address key limitations in battery performance 💡

The increasing demand for efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions highlights the importance of advancing battery technology. This white paper explores the various types of batteries, including solid-state batteries which are seen as the future of automotive batteries, and their applications across different industries.

Discover how high-purity alumina (HPA) can address the technological challenges faced by battery systems. With benefits ranging from enhanced safety to improved structural integrity, HPA has paved the way for significant technological advancements.

Learn how our research and development team can customize solutions to meet your specific battery requirements. Whether you need 4N alumina or nano-zirconia solutions, dowmload our white paper to get a valuable insights into Baikowski’s cutting-edge battery solutions.

 

Discover all our White Papers

💡Discover our phosphor & spinel solutions for a high quantum efficiency of your inorganic detection systems💡

Explore Baikowski® easy-friendly solutions, as well as our promising development areas, for your inorganic detectors.

After a summary of the detection principles and high-end applications, you will figure out the conditions for a high quantum efficiency of your detection systems, including the most compact ones.

Learn more about our standard offering & tailor-made approach by downloading our white paper.

Discover all our White Papers

Adaptive Driving Beam (ADB) is a smart system that can automatically adjust the light distribution of the headlights according to the traffic conditions, such as the presence of oncoming vehicles or pedestrians. By creating a glare-free area around vehicles, ADB can provide optimal illumination at long distances for the driver without dazzling other road users, enhancing both safety and comfort at night. ADB technology rely on perception systems that gather data, software controls that trigger an appropriate response, and advanced headlamp optics incorporating YAG converters to carry out the command.

Light conversion phosphors role in the solid-state lighting and ADB technology?

The light source is a key component for ABD, which is usually based on LED (light-emitting diode) technology and light changes are mainly controlled with a LED matrix design.

If LED have efficiency, long lifetime, low power consumption and fast response advantages over conventional halogen or xenon lamps, they also have color light rendering and thermal stability challenges. For high-power applications such as ADB, thermal stability and luminescent efficiency of phosphors can overcome these drawbacks.

Indeed, light conversion phosphors are materials that can absorb light of a certain wavelength (usually blue or near-ultraviolet) and re-emit light of a different wavelength (usually yellow or red). By combining the original and the converted light, white light with a desired color temperature and color rendering index can be obtained. The ideal color temperature for headlight should be close to the sunlight (around 5000K-6000K) in order to provide optimal visibility for human eyes.

One of the most widely used light conversion phosphors for white LEDs is YAG:Ce3+ (yttrium aluminum garnet doped with cerium ions) that efficiently convert blue into yellow light, resulting in a warm white light with a high luminous efficacy. By producing a high brightness and contrast ratio, it helps to create a clear and sharp image on the road.

Baikowski® high crystallinity, phasic and chemical purity submicronic YAG:Ce powder offers optimized particle size and distribution that allows the production of YAG-based converters with outstanding performances such as:

• 🌟 High efficiency with minimal energy wasted as heat and high light-performance from the input source
• 🌟 A quick and accurate response to the input signal for precise adjustments.
• 🌟 Exceptional stability in both light color and brightness

Fully compatible with nanostructured blue diodes and various LED chip designs, our YAG nanophosphors enable device miniaturization>

Learn more about Baikowski® unique submicronic YAG powders

Custom YAG-based converters for high-performance ADB lighting

By doping, enhanced performance of YAG:Ce3+ can be achieved. Here are some examples that could comply with your ADB lighting specification needs:

• 🌟 Color rendering: Doping YAG:Ce3+ with Tb3+ (terbium ions) allows a broader emission spectrum that improves the color rendering index of the white light.
• 🌟 Emissive properties and stability: the addition of gadolinium (Gd3+) ions as a codopant ensures consistent color and brightness
• 🌟 Quantum efficiency: Europium codoping can boost the quantum efficiency of the YAG:Ce phosphor, resulting in enhanced light output

Do not hesitate to contact our commercial and R&D teams for tailored YAG design.

 

Ceramic Matrix Composites have gained significant attention in recent years due to their remarkable properties and wide range of applications. Indeed, they are used in various sectors ranging from automotive components and aerospace structures to electrical insulators and biomedical devices.

Our white paper tackles the different types of composites and in particular Ox/Ox CMCs, whose lightweight nature, high strength, corrosion resistance, and thermal stability have paved the way for advancements in energy reduction and material performance.

💡But what is an outstanding matrix and how is a slurry formulated for an Ox/Ox CMC of high quality?💡

The continuous growth in the demand for enhanced CMC properties is driving force for strong R&D at Baikowski®. You are going to find here under our alumina and mullite powders (<1μm) that offer very good processability and high performance.

Moreover, we can design customised solutions that meet your specific needs and requirements such as :

• Doping and chemical composition: sintering aids, possible addition of nanozirconia particles for improved refractoriness
• Powders can be delivered in multiple forms: binder free spray dried powders for easy dispersion, concentrated aqueous slurries (typical solid loading ≈ 50wt%), funtionnalized powders for easy dispersion in non-aqueous solvents.
  Those materials can also be used (especialy in the form of spray dried powders) in thermal spray process to produce TBC (thermal barrier coatings)

Explore right now our standard offering & tailor-made approach by downloading our white paper.
👇

 

Discover all our White Papers

The exploration of combining ceramic matrices with reinforcing fibers has started in the 1980s with the aim of creating advanced material composites with high temperature resistance and lightweight properties.

It was primarily driven by the aerospace industry’s need to enhance the performance of vital components like turbine blades, thermal protection systems (TPS), structural elements, brakes and more, as well as to decrease fuel consumption.

As the aviation industry continues to shape the future and work towards decarbonization, Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) play a crucial role and are experiencing fast growth.

Baikowski®, at the forefront of  high-performance Ox/Ox CMC material development, has actively contributed to this paradigm shift. These CMCs offer temperature stability, low density, hardness, wear resistance and above all, they are not sensitive to oxidation compare to other CMCs.

Moreover, thanks to constant innovation in decarbonizing our manufacturing processes, Baikowski® oxide solutions benefit from a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment. This involves assessing the environmental impact at each stage of the material’s life cycle to promote the implementation of sustainable practices and a more eco-friendly supply chain.

See our 4N alumina & mullite solutions for CMCs

Ox/Ox CMC benefits for aero-engine applications

Combining oxide matrix with oxide fiber, such as alumina or mullite, results in better overall mechanical, physical and thermal properties. These CMCs offer reliable performance at temperatures up to 1,300°C, and no need for cooling air requirements, allowing the end products to be used in different aero-engine applications, such as combustion liners of gas turbine engines, heat shields and exhaust cones for example.

They have spurred innovation and efficiency in particular thanks to their :

Mechanical strength

Ox/Ox CMCs’ mechanical strength proves advantageous in engine components subjected to mechanical stresses, such as combustion liners. Their robust nature ensures liners to withstand the intense forces and rapid temperature fluctuations associated with the combustion process.

Corrosion Resistance

Corrosion resistance is also a cornerstone in fortifying the structural integrity of critical parts and significantly extend the lifespan and reliability of aerospace components exposed to harsh atmospheric conditions.

Over the years, CMCs in general and Ox/Ox CMCs have found applications beyond the aerospace industry, demonstrating their versatility and performance advantages in various fields, including the automotive, energy, electronics, defense and medical sectors.

Baikowski® advanced 4N alumina & mullite solutions for Ox/Ox CMCs

Developing high quality Ox/Ox CMCs with superior performance properties for critical components required precise control over the characteristics of high purity alumina-based powders and slurries such as :

• 🌟 A well-dispersed and stable slurry, which is crucial for achieving the desired microstructure and mechanical properties of the final CMC, requires a fine and uniform particle distribution powder (< 1μm).
• 🌟 An optimal viscosity guarantees the desired structural integrity of the component
• 🌟 A high sintering reactivity allows for control over porosity and ensures rapid and efficient densification. These factors, in turn, impact CMC’s mechanical strength and thermal properties.
• 🌟 A densification temperature  kept as low as possible is determinant to preserve the structural and mechanical properties of the fibers and to ensure the overall stability of the CMC.
• 💡 Moreover, dopants can be added to improve specific characteristics, do not hesitate to contact us for tailor design. 💡

Among Baikowski® CMC offering, our SM8 powder and ready-to-use BA15-PSS slurry stand out. Additionally, we have innovatively created a mullite solution for a better compatibility with mullite fibers.

For a deeper dive into our advanced materials for oxide CMCs and insights into what is an outstanding matrix and how is a slurry formulated for an Ox/Ox CMC of high quality, explore our dedicated white paper 👇

Advanced Materials for oxide CMCs
white paper

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LED technology: a sustainable lighting & display solution

Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) have revolutionized various industries, by providing energy-efficient solutions with less environmental impact than traditional lighting for a wide range of applications, including display screens, car displays and lightings, electronics and smart devices.

Thanks to to the direct conversion of electrical current into light (optical radiation) within the semiconductor material, LEDs exhibit this remarkable level of efficiency. However, a significant portion of the electrical power is also transformed into heat during the process.

High Purity Alumina, YAG & nanomaterials role in advanced LED technology

High Purity Alumina (HPA) plays an essential role in producing the substrate, which serves as a foundation for the LED chip, affecting its overall performance, thermal management, and efficiency. Thanks to its exceptional ability to resist high temperatures, conduct heat efficiently, and insulate against electrical conductivity, LED lights can operate at their maximum potential.

As a highly efficient heat-dissipating component, High Purity Alumina (HPA) has contributed to the LED technology sustainability. Indeed, by maintaining LEDs at optimal temperatures, they maximize their performance and extends their operational lifespan, about 30,000 hours, equivalent to 6 hours of daily illumination for 12 years.

HPA has also influences the optical performance of LED lights, particularly in applications demanding color purity and accuracy. Its uniform crystal structure enhance light diffraction and color consistency in applications like display screens and specialized lighting.

Beyond HPA, Baikowski® also manufactures phosphors, used among other things for generating a broader spectrum of colors, such as its submicronic YAG product that offers a natural-looking white light. For instance, it is used in white LEDs and plasma display panels, as well as adaptive headlights to create different colors and intensities of light depending on the driving situation and the environment.

💡 As technology continues to evolve, Baikowski® finely-tuned oxides solutions and Mathym® advanced nanomaterials, that offer high crystallinity and controlled specific surface area, will have a role to play in the progress of emerging optics applications like mini-LED and micro-LED displays.💡

Integrating the superior performances of Mathym® nanoparticles, such as zilight®  into nanoscale structures or coatings, not only enables the miniaturization of optical devices, but also facilitates integration with other technologies, paving the way for the development of compact and multifunctional  LED lighting solutions.

🌟 Whether it’s LED lighting or cutting-edge displays, Baikowski® group is here to cater to your specific needs.🌟

View optics and photonics related products

What is the purpose of ceramic nanofillers?

Nanofillers are nanoparticles of oxides embedded into a matrix of diverse materials (polymers, resins, metal…). The “classical” nanofillers are meant to lower the cost of a material by replacing a higher value material. Furthermore, ceramic nanofillers have the benefit of strengthen the physical properties of the matrix, namely its mechanical, optical or thermal properties.

Moreover, we’ll show here a new type of nanofillers, designed for high performance applications. We are talking about the agglomerate-free nanomaterial dispersions.

Properties of innovative ceramic nanofillers

The agglomerate-free nanomaterials dispersed in various media are bringing outstanding properties:

• High solid loading
• High transmittance
• Low viscosity.

Mathym® and Baikowski® are producing several nanoparticles, which can be used as nanofillers. Here are some examples including high purity alumina (Al2O3) nano-dispersions, ceria (CeO2) and zirconia (ZrO2), as known as zilight® for Mathym:

The nanoparticles are agglomerate-free and delivered as a suspension. They are also known as nano-dispersions. Well dispersed, these nanoparticles used as nanofillers are solving some paradoxes:

• Radio-opacity / High transmittance, especially for the product YbF3 of Mathym, filyxio®
• Low sintering temperature / High density of the ceramic
• High refractive index / Low light scattering

Hence, the upper properties find their applications in several markets such as medical, technical ceramics, electronics, optronics…

Do you want to know more about our innovative ceramic nanofillers?

Discover Mathym® nanodispersions