Correlation between densification rate and microstructural evolution for pure alpha alumina

Correlation between microstructural evolution and macroscopic measurements has been investigated on pure alpha alumina under non-isothermal conditions. The densification of different as-received and milled powders of alumina has been monitored during sintering. Densification rate curves as a function of relative density are sensitive to microstructure, such as initial parameters of microstructure (agglomeration, pore size, heterogeneities), and heating schedule (thermal pre-treatment, heating rate). Densification rate curves can be correlated with microstructural evolution during overall sintering and are expected to be a good help to choose raw materials.