Binder coagulation casting of ferroelectric components

Binder coagulation casting (BCC) is a novel method for near-net shape formi ng of ferroelectric components with complex geometry or intricate surface f eatures. The process uses low concentrations of nontoxic polymeric binders in an aqueous system to form a low-viscosity slurry, which can be cast in a nonporous mold and coagulated under controlled conditions. This paper high lights an application of BCC technique in prototype manufacturing of a PZT piezoelectric actuator.