Effect of process atmosphere on dilatometer controlled sintering

Dilatometric measurements are effective sensors in controlling the sintering process. The sintering of silicon nitride is strong influenced by the interactions with the process atmosphere. The undesired gas phase transport in graphite furnaces is commonly minimized by BN coatings. Incorrect shrinking dates result from gas phase reactions supported by thermal induced convections. Protecting the dilatometer bar by RBSN components or using a BN dilatometer help to reduce the typical mass losses. The representativeness of shrinkage measurements is supported by special charging elements like RBSN crucibles. Optimized sintering atmosphere reduces the thickness of decomposited surface region.