PROGRESS IN MATERIALS SYNTHESIS

This paper reviews recent results on the synthesis of novel materials at the Pulvermetallurgisches Laboratorium (PML). The preparation of na no-sized ceramic powders as well as new powder technological approache s in the field of colloidal processing are discussed. Additionally, li quid-phase sintering of beta aluminas and of silicon carbide is descri bed. Complementary to these investigations the synthesis of covalent m aterials by powder-free methods by using preceramic compounds (precurs ors) is a topic of current activity. Research in this field focus main ly on the precursor synthesis, the processing of precursors to ceramic thin films, coatings and bulk materials as well as on the investigati on of the materials properties.