Significance of Diffusion-Induced Transport Processes in the Sintering of Disperse Metallic Systems.

In the theoretical part of this paper, an attempt is made to define the diffusion mechanisms that are effective in the sintering processes of metallic systems. Equations are derived on the basis of model tests for surface, grain boundary, and volume diffusion in sintering. Review of literature data leads to the conclusion that all three of these mechanisms are involved and that their individual contribution depends on temperature. it is suggested that the concept of activated sintering may be a key to controlling the process.