Interparticle potentials of aqueous Al2O3 suspensions

Optimum dispersing conditions for 43 vol.-% aqueous Al2O3 suspensions have been studied by assessing rheological behaviour as a function of dispersant concentration. A commercial polyelectrolyte was used as dispersant. The particle pair potentials have been calculated by considering the electrostatic and steric contributions. Variations in the steric potential produce significant changes in the shape and level of the potential energy curves and allow the prediction of the stability of suspensions that should coagulate according to the DLVO equation. Colloidal stability and rheological behaviour are correlated with the green and sintered densities of Al2O3 bodies produced by slip casting.