Fabrication and properties of SiO2f/SiO2 composite ceramic based on stereolithography technology

ABSTRACTDuring the light curing process, the high transmittance of fused quartz leads to overcuring of the paste, thereby affecting its forming precision. To address this issue, aniline black dye was incorporated into the SiO2f/SiO2 ceramic paste to enhance its ultraviolet light absorption. The impact of modifying agent on paste viscosity and the influence of sintering temperature on ceramic microstructure and properties were investigated. The results demonstrated that by adding the black dye, the dimensional deviation rate of SiO2f/SiO2 composite ceramic decreased to less than 8.0%. The optimal sintering temperature was determined as 900°C, resulting in a maximum flexural strength of 21.9 MPa at room temperature and 25.5 MPa at 600°C respectively. However, with further increase in temperature, flexural strength declined due to cristobalite formation. Additionally, dielectric properties were examined and it was found that the main failure mechanisms of the fibers in the SiO2f/SiO2 composite ceramic were fiber fracture and fiber pull-out.