Preparation of high solid loading, low viscosity ZrB2–SiC aqueous suspensions using PEI as dispersant

PEI was used as dispersant for ZrB2 and SiC powders in water. The dispersion behavior of ZrB2 and SiC in water was studied by zeta potential measurements, particle size distribution measurements and interparticle interaction calculations. Well-dispersed ZrB2 and SiC aqueous suspensions were obtained using 0.6 wt% PEI at pH 6. The rheological behavior of ZrB2–SiC aqueous suspensions was also investigated. Finally, a high solid loading (52 vol%), low viscosity (980 mPa s at 100 s−1) ZrB2–SiC aqueous suspension was successfully prepared.